Transition Issue 54 2024

Jewel of the Caribbean

The Island of Montserrat

TECHNOLOGY, AI, & YOUR CAREER

Pumpkin EverythingSpiceNice Recipes

Retirement into Sailing

LGBT Purge Survivor

Appointed Honorary Colonel to CPCC

WE HIRE VETERANS & RESERVISTS

Commissionaires recognizes the experience and skills veterans and reservists contribute to the workforce. We value the leadership, teamwork, and discipline gained through your military service. Apply today at commissionaires.ca SERVE IN A NEW WAY

Michelle Levesque

Michelle Levesque is a veteran spouse having lived in Germany, Oromocto NB, and sunny Petawawa. With her husband now retired and her three kids all grown up, Michelle spends her free time talking to her dogs, cats and plants, bingeing on British TV and listening to every kind of podcast.

Julia Lennips

Julia is a journalist who discovered her passion for writing after reading authors like: Edgar Allan Poe and H.P Lovecraft. In 2019, she received her advanced diploma in journalism, before completing an internship at the Ottawa Citizen.

Lindsey Palka Ly

Lindsey is a blogger, editor, military spouse, and writer whose work has appeared on The Toast, The Hairpin, and several other websites. She earned her B.A. Honours in History from Carleton University and her Master’s in History from the University of New Brunswick.

Cristina Florentina Braia

Born in Bucharest, Romania, Cristina has a university degree in Economics and working experience in the Hospitality and Tourism industry. She traveled to more than 30 countries worldwide and met her CAF husband in 2016, in the Caribbean, while she was working on a cruise ship.

Jill Kruse

Jill Kruse is a journalist from Atlantic Canada with a passion for tennis and travel. Following the unfortunate passing of her beloved soldier in 2008, Jill spent the next decade raising their three little girls and rediscovering her love for writing. Xaverian Weekly.

We are Canada’s only military and veteran family lifestyle magazine. While we work with DND, the CAF and CFMWS, we are privately owned. All our team members are part of military and veteran families.

Issue 54, Transition 2024

Box 5004 25 Civic Centre Rd. Petawawa, ON K8H 0B0

Call 1.613.867.2106 cmfmag.ca info@cmfmag.ca

Editor-in-Chief & Publisher Cyndi Mills cyndi@cmfmag.ca

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Samantha Walton

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Julia Lennips

Deborah Van der Linde

Cristina Florentina Braia Jill Kruse

GOAT RODEO

Monica Bobbitt

COPY EDITOR

Angela Mackenzie

Lindsey Palka Ly

CAREERS

Natalie Mclellan

Our thanks to CFMWS as a valued partner in the distribution of our magazine.

Editorial guidelines can be found on website. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisers’ claims, opinion editorials, unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies, or other materials.

Letters to the editors or articles submitted by individuals are not the views of this magazine but rather the views of the authors themselves. This magazine takes no responsibility for the views expressed.

All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden.  Canadian Military Family Magazine content, intellectual property and distinctive logo are owned by the Canadian Military Family Magazine.

©2024 Canadian Military Family Magazine ISSN 2371-1086

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FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome

to our digital issue!

Hello and welcome!

My first attempt at writing this coIumn was to share with you I don’t know where the last few years have gone, but that’s not true. A lot has happened. Parents have died, or now residing in long term care, babies have been born, children have moved away from home and my husband has been busy living regimental life or on tour. Life keeps moving on.

With all that has happened time has passed by very quickly. While we have been busy with our website articles, the digital flipbook issue seemed to come last - until now. We are very excited to finally publish this issue—it truly has been a long time coming.

We have lots of fantastic articles for you and hope you enjoy them. Along with our regular articles, What to Watch, Favourite Products, Must Listen to Podcasts, Avid Reader, Been There Done That, and Out and About, we also feature articles on Veterans, World Animal Day, Dolly Parton’s reading program, and lots more.

Our guest avid reader is a must-read. Read how she and her Chief set out to live their dream of sailing into retirement and the predicament COVID-19 left them. Plus, learn more about the book she wrote about their adventure.

In case you missed it, last year, the Minister of National Defence Bill Blair named Michelle Douglas as the first honorary colonel for Chief, Professional Conduct and Culture (CPCC). As an LGBT purge survivor, Douglas shares her story of when she first joined the Canadian Armed Forces as a young officer and how her dreams turned to disappointment when she endured traumatic and demoralizing treatment.

Also, if you have a loved one who served during the Second

World War, don’t miss our Been There Done That section. A child of a Second World War Veteran, Karen Hunter created the not-forprofit program In Our Fathers’ Footsteps.

Having mapped out where her father had served when he helped liberate the Netherlands, Hunter walked in her father’s footsteps after his death, which was years after the war.

Touched by the exerience Hunter wanted other descendants of Second World War Veterans to experience the Dutch gratitude she experienced. Hence, she organized a trip to mark the 75th anniversay of the liberation of Netherlands. Having sold out the first trip, Hunter has planned a second one. It marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in the Netherlands.

In our Keeping the Balance section, you will find our travel article. In this issue, we feature what is known as the Jewel of the Caribbean, the island of Montserrat. This gem of an island is different from your typical Caribbean island. Nicknamed “The Emerald Isle of the Caribbean,” both for its resemblance to coastal Ireland and the Irish ancestry of many of its inhabitants, the article is a must-read for those looking for places to visit that are off the beaten track.

With fall here - that means it is pumpkin season. Whether you are looking for a dessert, muffin, loaf, or soup, make sure you check out our recipes.

Wishing you a fabulous autumn!

Until next time,

With my grandson on my birthday.

Who we serve

All veterans, military, RCMP, and their families.

What we do

• Review and address complaints about Veterans Affairs Canada

• Provide information and referrals

• Advocate for fairness

Where you can go for help

Submit a complaint online: ombudsman-veterans.gc.ca

Call: 1-877-330-4343 ombudsman-veterans.gc.ca

@veteransombudsman

@vetsombudsman

@veteransombudsmancanada

À qui s’adressent nos services

Tous les vétérans, les militaires, les membres de la GRC et leur famille.

Ce que nous faisons

• Examiner les plaintes concernant Anciens

Combattants Canada et les résoudre

• Fournir des renseignements/références

• Promouvoir l’équité

@ombudsmanveterans

@ombudveterans

@ombudsmanveteranscanada

Pour obtenir de l’aide

Pour présenter une plainte en ligne : ombudsman-veterans.gc.ca

Par téléphone : 1-877-330-4343

PRODUCTS WE LOVE

Favourite Products

A few products that caught our attention this month.

1. Simplehuman Dual Compartment Rectangular Step Can is a sleek, space-efficient trash and recycling bin. Featuring two compartments, it simplifies waste sorting. With a strong steel pedal, it ensures a smooth, hands-free operation, while a softclose lid minimizes noise. The system also features a storage compartment for liners and a odorsob pod. Purchase at Simplehuman website ($270), costco. ca (169.99), Costco store ($138.99). Costco in store includes bin, 10 custom fit liners, and one odorsob pod.

2. The Simplehuman Compost Caddy conveniently docks on the side of Simplehuman trash cans encouraging people making waste management even more efficient. The caddy attaches to a magnetic dock that hangs at the side of your rectangular or slim liner rim trash can, or you can detach it for use on your kitchen counter. The soft-seal lid allows food scraps to breathe, keeping odour under control and pests away. ($70).

Acronyms

3. The Malarie 47” Kitchen Pantry is a stylish, functional storage solution, perfect for organizing kitchen essentials. Featuring adjustable shelves, spacious cabinets, and a sleek design, it offers ample storage for food, cookware, and more.Its sturdy construction and elegant finish make it a versatile addition to any home. Perfect for any home needing more storage. Available in two colours at Wayfair.

4. LEGO Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas set brings the beloved film to life with detailed, buildable scenes. Featuring iconic characters like Jack Skellington, Sally, and Zero, it allows fans to recreate spooky moments from Halloween Town. Perfect for collectors, it combines LEGO creativity with movie magic

MFRC (Military Family Resource Centre) is a community-based organization that provides support services, resources, and programs to Canadian military families. These centres are located on or near Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) bases and wings across the country and overseas.

CSC (Canadian Surface Combatants) are a new fleet of warships being built for the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) as part of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy.

CPCC (Chief, Professional Conduct and Culture) is a senior leadership position within the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), created to address and enhance the culture, conduct, and professional standards within the military.

WW (Women’s Wellness) is a Women and Gender-Diverse Physical Fitness and Wellness Program providing specialized fitness and wellness programs for women in the Canadian Armed Forces and is inclusive of gender-diverse members who may also benefit.

4

Podcasts to Listen to

Over the weekend

Oh, autumn! Now that I’ve entered the twilight of my 40s (49!), I find myself less interested in watching the telly (except for British TV) and more interested in searching for an escape in my yard with my podcasts. Weeding & true crime? Yes, please! Join me on an auditory escape!

How did this get made?

Jason Mantzoukas, Paul Scheer, and June Rafael ask the question we have all asked after watching a horrible movie, How did this movie get made? I suggest starting with episode 253, Cats, and episode 265, Supergirl with Brie Larson. The comedians pick apart movies and ask questions we have wondered: where was the movie’s budget spent, how the movie’s budget was spent, questions regarding the plot, and why was the movie even made in the first place. The trio finish the podcast with five-star reviews from Amazon! If you’re looking for a lighthearted view of questionable movies, give this one a listen!.

TENFOLD MORE WICKED & SISTER Podcast Wicked Words

What happens when you cross investigative reporting and a deep dive into history?

Three seasons of binge-worthy stories from Kate Dawson. The first season follows the story of Edward Rulloff, an academic who left his family in Nova Scotia in 1842 to start new in upstate New York. How could the upstanding Schutt family know they invited a monster into their home?

On the Wicked Words podcast, Kate interviews other journalists and authors who have investigated some of the most appalling true crime events in recent history. Get the behind-the-scenes stories of the Long Island Serial Killer, BTK Killer, and more.

Cold

HypocondriActor

Who doesn’t love Sean Hayes? The Will and Grace actor debuted a new podcast with Dr./Comedian Priyanka Wali to talk about all his real and imagined ailments. They welcome a guest each week to share their medical mysteries and a lot of laughs.

Where is Susan Powell? A dedicated mom of two beautiful boys didn’t show up for work. The police questioned her husband, Josh. He had no idea where his wife could be because he had taken her two boys (ages 2 and 4) on a camping trip, in the middle of the night, in a blizzard. What unfolds sounds like fiction but is horrifically true. Join host Dave Cawley as he narrates this shocking true crime story.

MICHELLE LEVESQUE PODCASTS

MILITARY 411

WHAT TO WATCH

Red One | Releases Nov. 15

As the world tiptoes closer to the holiday season, Hollywood is on track to release some of its biggest hits of the year. From sequels of beloved classics to remakes of timeless masterpieces, the silver screen is sure to light up from all the new releases. So, grab a friend and check out our roundup of the best new movies to air this November.

Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans, J.K. Simmons, Lucy Liu, Kiernan Shipka.

If you’re already in the holiday spirit, this action-packed holiday comedy explores what happens when Santa Claus, a.k.a. the Red One, is kidnapped. In an effort to save Christmas, the North Pole’s head of security and a world-famous bounty hunter must team up and travel the world over. A star-studded ensemble brings this hilarious action to life.

Wicked | Releases Nov. 15

Starring: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Jeff Goldblum.

One of the most highly anticipated films of this year, Wicked brings the beloved Broadway musical to audiences around the world through the big screen. The first in a two-part movie series, Wicked, follows the story of Elphaba, a misunderstood green-skinned young woman and her friendship with Glinda and their encounter with the Wizard of Oz.

Moana 2 | Releases Nov. 27.

Starring Dwayne Johnson, Alan Tudyk, Nicole Scherzinger, Auli’i Cravalho.

A sequel to the 2016 beloved Disney movie Moana 2 catches up with Moana three years after the first movie. Her journey begins anew after receiving a calling from her ancestors. She reunites with old friends to journey the seas, make new friends, and battle new foes, all in an attempt to break the curse on the hidden island of Motufetu.

Juror No. 2 | Releases Nov. 1.

Starring Nicholas Hoult, Toni Collette, Zoey Deutch, J.K. Simmons, and Keifer Sutherland. Directed by Clint Eastwood, this high-stakes thriller centres around Justin Kemp, a family man who finds himself serving as a juror for a high-profile murder trial. As the trial unfolds, he finds himself facing a moral dilemma that could change the entire course of the trial and the verdict. One way or another, a decision will either free or convict the wrong person.

Conclave | Releases Oct. 25.

Starring: Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, Isabella Rossellini. This psychological thriller is sure to keep audiences on their toes. Based on the 2016 novel by Robert Harris, Conclave tells the story of Cardinal Lawrence, who is tasked with the election of the new pope. However, the task unexpectedly leads him down a path to discover the secrets of the deceased pope that threaten the candidacy of several favourites to become the next leader of the Catholic world.

GUEST AVID READER

Retirement into Sailing

“You mean I can retire when I’m 52? With a full pension?” asked Dave, who was then just a 17- year-old Sea Cadet and facing one of the biggest decisions of his life: what to do with it? The man in the green uniform sitting behind the desk nodded his head in the affirmative. “They’re going to feed me? Clothe me? Pay me?” he repeated, his head swimming with possibilities of a job that would allow him to not only serve his country, but do what he really yearned for... travel! All that might have been enough for him to sign on the dotted line, but ultimately it was the allure of a fully pensioned retirement that was the driving force as he put pen to paper, scribbling his life away into that fateful signature that made him, from that moment on, a member of the Royal Canadian Navy.

A Naval Weapons Technician by trade, his service included time on many RCN ships, international deployments, and promotions through the ranks to Chief Petty Officer First Class. Eventually he was even appointed to the position of Fleet Chief Petty Officer at the Canadian Fleet Atlantic HQ. Meanwhile, Alexandra, also in Halifax as the CF Translation Services Project Officer, had just accepted an assignment that put her in the same hallway of beige cubicles as “the Chief.” They didn’t pay each other any mind until the Universe intervened when she spilled a cup of coffee over his crisply ironed white shirt. The rest, as they say, is history. As the Fleet Chief Petty Officer, Dave soon found himself at another crossroads. With 33-plus years of dedicated service, he was facing limited postings career-wise. This time the Universe intervened by dangling the idea of retirement on the horizon, and he soon put pen to paper again, this time signing on a very different type of dotted line. Now he was facing a future of his own making, one that included a sailboat amed Banyan and a First Mate to go with it. Within the year, their plan they had spent so many years dreaming and creating was executed. Two words we can’t emphasize enough: plan and execute!

“The Cap’n likes to tell everyone who crosses his path that hope is not a plan! Create your own personal dream: research it, plan it, photo-board it, change it up if and when necessary and as personal circumstances dictate. But the most important step towards any goal you might choose to embark on, always remains to... execute!” (Palcic, Alexandra. 18 days. 2021).

So they went sailing: taking Banyan from Nova Scotia down the Eastern seaboard to Florida, the Bahamas, and into the Eastern Caribbean. A few years later, looking for new waters to explore, they sailed north back to Florida, enjoying the Bahamas for a few seasons and adding an RV to the mix. Then it was time to move again, this time relocating Banyan to the Western Caribbean when they sailed her from the Bahamas into the Rio Dulce (Guatemala) via Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and the Honduras Bay Islands.

Then the year that has been dubbed #wtf2020 happened. Banyan was in dire need of rescue. The Chief still in Dave quickly jumped to action stations and hatched a four-week Rescue Mission: one that had the couple flying from Nova Scotia to Belize, taking Banyan out of one country into another, all while sea orders were closed, during hurricane season, all while a global pandemic raged. What could possibly go wrong? It’s not a spoiler alert to say that they did make it back home to Canada. In ‘18 days’ in fact.

On Alexandra’s Bookshelf

I was a bibliophile from the moment I could read, growing into a lover of words the more I discovered them. Blogging daily as we adventured the last ten years of our ‘Living our Dream’ lifestyle. When travel burnout enveloped my body and COVID-19 engulfed the world, my anxiety mounted exponentially. An artist and creator by nature, I tuned my soul to what it knows best and writing became the way to channel my angst, while penning my words allowed me to ground myself.

Then inspiration hit. Since COVID-19 closed borders and we couldn’t be in Guatemala volunteering our own time by working with our marina cruisers charity group “Friends of Rio Dulce, Guatemala,” I would do something from home. I would format the story of our rescue mission into an e-book, forwarding whatever proceeds resulted. I’m thrilled to report we just transferred our first payment of $354 U.S. dollars! It’s gone directly to the Rio Dulce communities that are still digging out and recovering from two back to back hurricanes: Hurricane Eta and Iota. My own shelf of books has been rather neglected these days. However, I have thoroughly enjoyed: A Man Called Ove by Frederik Backman, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce, Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. Next to read is: The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams, ‘cause? Title!

However, I humbly confess that the highlight of my virtual bookshelf is seeing my own e-book there the incredible sunset photo taken while we were onboard, just days away from Hurricane Iota or better yet, receiving photos of it on others devices. The fulfilment of this most recent artistic expression has completed a space in me that I didn’t know had been empty, in need of tending and nourishment. It’s been a learning experience and what good is a day where you don’t strive to learn something new? Every soul seeks to grow, to find a path that allows it to celebrate its own authentic potential, to explore with wild abandon wherever the compass points might lead. This new path I’m dancing on is allowing me to confidently mentor others who are on their own unique road. My journey is not yet complete, a concept which has become not only inspirational, but hugely motivating. That’s something to wake up to, be energized for. To celebrate. We live to adventure and we adventure to live... isn’t that what life is about? Find and follow your own path and passions, build your dream of a life, include some banyan times, then? Plan and execute ~ OnOn*! *OnOn! another term found in my book. If you’re now curious about us, want to know why we named our boat Banyan and exactly what happened during those 18 days? Well, you might just have to read it.

Follow & Support Dave and Alexandra Follow on Facebook here. Sailblogs: https://www.sailblogs.com/member/banyan/483745 Leisure Travel Vans: https://leisurevans.com/blog/author/banyantravelsalexandradave/ To Purchase “18 days”: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/banyantravels/extras

Honouring those who have served Canada

The N National Military Cemetery is a national focal point of honour which recognises the men and women of Canada’s Armed Forces who have served their country with distinction in war and in peace. As a national site of recognition, this cemetery is unique within Canada.

D Download the National Military Cemetery Planning E-Book and learn the simple planning process today!

Aircraft Fleet Engineer Aircraft Fleet Engineer Aircraft Fleet Engineer

Shape the future of canada’s air force as an with KF Aerospace

Canada is entering a new era of military aircrew training, with SkyAlyne selected by the Government of Canada as the contractor for the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program. KF Aerospace, a proudly Canadian company and founding partner in SkyAlyne, plays a critical role in ensuring the airworthiness of five new fleets of training aircraft for the 25+ year program.We are seeking experienced aerospace engineers today, particularly those transitioning from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), to join us in this pivotal role as Aircraft Fleet Engineers for FAcT. This is more than just an engineering job—it's an opportunity to shape the future of Canada's Air Force.

Start from the Ground Up

Imagine being at the forefront of a groundbreaking new program that is set to redefine aircrew training for Canada's Air Force. Your expertise will help drive the development and execution of a training program that will prepare the next generation of RCAF pilots, Air Combat Systems Operators, and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators. This is a unique opportunity to have a lasting impact on military aviation in Canada and globally.

Your Work is Instrumental

The success of the FAcT Program relies heavily on the skills and dedication of its aerospace engineers. Your work will be crucial in managing airworthiness clearances and addressing fleet technical issues, directly influencing the operational readiness of one of the RCAF’s most vital programs. This role demands both technical proficiency and a strong commitment to excellence.

Work on State-of-the-Art Aircraft

One of the most exciting aspects of the FAcT Program is the chance to work on the RCAF's new fleet of training aircraft. The Grob 120TP, Pilatus PC-21,

Beechcraft/Textron King Air 260, DeHavilland Dash-8-400, and Airbus H-135 Helicopter will form the backbone of FAcT, stationed at training bases in Moose Jaw, Southport, and Winnipeg. You’ll be based in SkyAlyne’s Ottawa Joint Management Office, collaborating with the Department of National Defence and RCAF personnel to ensure program success. Whether handling risk management, configuration management, or technical problem resolution, you’ll apply your skills to some of the most advanced training aircraft in the world.

Competitive Compensation and Benefits

At KF Aerospace, we recognize the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life. That’s why we offer competitive compensation and benefits to ease this transition. As part of the FAcT Program, you’ll enjoy a rewarding career with flexibility and a supportive team. Based in Ottawa, this role provides the perfect balance of professional challenge and personal well-being, with comprehensive benefits including health and dental coverage, pension matching, and relocation assistance for you and your family if you’re moving to Ottawa.

Be a Part of History

Canada’s military aircrew training has a storied history of excellence, and the FAcT Program is set to continue this legacy,especially as the Royal Canadian Air Force celebrates its 100th anniversary. By joining KF Aerospace and the SkyAlyne team, you’ll play a vital role in writing the next chapter of this proud history.

If you’re a retiring RCAF aerospace engineer looking for your next challenge, the FAcT Program with KF Aerospace and SkyAlyne offers a unique opportunity to continue serving your country in a meaningful and impactful way.

Join us in shaping the future of Canada's Air Force. Apply today and be part of

AVID READER

Random

Reads to Get Lost In

Usually, the books I review have some common theme or themes to unite them, but this time I must say that they are a random collection. They are mostly titles that I came across that seemed so interesting that I had to share. I will start with a couple titles from my favourite genre, then move on to fiction, nonfiction, and more.

With Bourdain being a chef, I find I am drawn to the topic of food – more specifically, one of my favourite ways of cooking on a weekday evening when there is not a lot of time after work. Ricardo Larrivee’s Sheet Pan Everything is wonderful. Simple, fast recipes all on one pan – this is perfect after working all day. Not only does the cookbook provide well-balanced recipes, but it also provides advice on meal planning, making life just a little easier.

Leigh Bardugo has an interesting new book out, the first in a new trilogy, called Shadow and Bone. It is about a land devastated by the Shadow Fold –near-solid darkness that is riddled with monsters. Alina, in a life-threatening situation, discovers she has an unknown power making her crucial in the fightm against the Shadow Fold. The story is a gripping fantasy.

As I am sure I have mentioned, I love a good mystery story and Dial A for Aunties looks like it fits the bill. This new cozy mystery by Jesse Q. Sutanto involves a murder, a wedding, a meddlesome family, and afamily curse – how can you go wrong? With humour and a bit of ro ance, this mystery should keep youengaged to the end. Speaking of a good mix of plot lines, Carol J. Perry’s Be My Ghost looks like it, too, should be a lot of fun. The first in a new series, main character Maureen and her dog, Finn, are both facing career changes - Maureen was laid off, and Finn flunked out of guide dog school for being toofriendly. At loose ends in a city they cannot afford, the two move to an inn in a cute town in Florida thatMaureen has just inherited. Things take a strange turn when she finds a body on her new property – andthe resident ghosts offer their help to solve the case.

Without a doubt, the pandemic has been hard for us all, and Charlie Mackesy’s  The Boy, the Mole, the Fox & the Horse  provides an illustrated story of inspiration and hope. The boy, mole, fox and horse are travelling together, sharing their hopes and dreams – and their fears. Mackesy’s wonderful story and illustrations are inspiring – a perfect pandemic read. Which brings me to travelling – if you, like me, miss being able to travel, then travel vicariously through Anthony Bourdain’s World Travel: An Irreverent Guide. This book contains stories told in Bourdain’s own oice about his travels, including advice both entertaining as well as practical. Along with Bourdain, you will find essays from his friends and family supporting his own writing.

Ashley Audrain’s The Push is another gripping story, though a thriller. Blythe is a new mother who, like many new parents, worries about her first child, that there is maybe something wrong – she does not connect with her daughter the way she feels she should. She is told by those around her that she is imagining things. Everything is different with her second child, where the connection is strong. When something happens that changes the family’s life, Blythe is forced to look at the truth about her own past and about her daughter. What is of particular interest with this book is the way it looks at the expectations around motherhood.

Another book I am excited about is Joshua Whitehead’s Jonny Appleseed, which just won first place in Canada Reads, is the winner of the Lambda Literary Award and George Bugnet Award for Fiction. It is also a finalist for the Governor General’s Award for fiction, and many more. The story follows Jonny Appleseed, a young Two-Spirited Indigiqueer who is about to return to his community for a funeral. What follows are the stories of his life, love and ambition; and how he learns to come to terms with his past.

For another somewhat strange story, check out Jess Kidd’s Things in Jars, which follows investigator Bridie Devine on her search for a very strange child who has been kidnapped. The child has some very remarkable abilities – supernatural abilities, in fact – and there are many collectors who have a great interest in her. Set in an alternate Victorian London, this story is full of memorable characters, like the tattooed ghost of a boxer and a 7-foot-tallmaid, and is a wonderfully told combination of fantasy and mystery.

For those who love mythology and folklore, be sure to read Scarlett St. Clair’s A Touch of Malice, which is a retelling of the story of Persephone and Hades – with a bit of a different take, of course. In this story, Persephone’s mother is not at all happy that her daughter is engaged to Hades and is determined to end the engagement. The Olympian gods intervene, but are faced with a very difficult choice, and either route will likely end in war. You see, if they support Hades, they will cause a war with Demeter, the goddess of the Harvest, but to side with Demeter means a war with Hades, the god of the Dead.Gerfex nest intiam in tes?

O tes publi publius publis

If you like suspenseful, gothic-style books, be sure to check out Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s Mexican Gothic. I read this book in about two sittings – I could not put it down. After receiving a bizarre letter from her newly married cousn, Noemi rushes to her cousin’s side. She arrives to find a rundown, remote house set in the forest. She discovers that her cousin is sick, but then starts to notice that strange things are happening, and that not all is as it seems in the house with her cousin’s husband and his family. This is a well told and very strange story. This story puts me in mind of stories like Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte, and Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier, both of which deal with secrets and strange houses.

Finally, I will share a book for kids, and one for teens: The Secret Lake, by Karen Inglis and They Both Die in the End, by Adam Silvera. Inglis’s story for children follows siblings Stella and Tom on a time travelling adventure that involves secret tunnels, lakes and a dog who keeps coming home wet even though they are in a neighborhood in London. This story is a lot of fun, and perfect for summer vacation. Silvera’s book for teens managed to hook me with the title. It follows Mateo and Rufus who have both just been informed that they are to die today. What follows is one last day of adventure. This is ultimately an uplifting story. It is also a story that has been receiving a lot of attention and is considered the best book of the year by School Library Journal, Kirkus, and more.Happy Reading!

Family Resource Centres

Atlantic Military RECEIVE SUPPORT

Supporting the approximately 66,000 Regular Force members in Canada is a challenge. But what about their families?

Canadian military families tend to face significant emotional and financial challenges, according to a report by the Journal of Military, Veteran and Family Health. These include frequent geographic relocations, time spent away from their loved ones, and the potential that a military career could result in illness, injury and even death, impacting the family as a whole. To help address these challenges, and in recognition of Military Family Appreciation Day, on September 20st, the RBC Foundation donated $200,000 to support programming at five Military Family Resource Centres in Atlantic Canada.

“This RBC Foundation funding will enable us to rebuild and stabilize our Occasional and Respite Child Care service,” said Shelly Hopkins, Executive Director at the Halifax and Region Military Family Resource Centre. “The funding covers a large portion of the costs associated with implementing this high-quality and preventative service, which aims to build resilience in children and well-being for parents and guardians during relocation, absences and transitions.”

The program also provides a safe and welcoming space for young children to connect with peers through play and social experiences.

“My daughter began going to occasional care shortly after my husband was medically released,” said a parent who leans on the Halifax centre for support. “We are always so at ease when we leave our daughter with them. She gets to play outside, do arts and crafts and socialize with other children. Being able to attend appointments or take time for ourselves while knowing our daughter is cared for has been very helpful in the transition from

actively serving to being medically released. We would recommend occasional care to anyone in the Canadian Armed Forces community.”

The New Brunswick Military Family Resource Centre will also use its portion of the donation to expand its emergency and casual childcare for families.

“RBC Foundation’s support is pivotal in expanding our Emergency and Casual Childcare services, which are essential for the well-being of military families,” said Lindsay Gallagher, Executive Director at the New Brunswick Military Family Resource Centre. “The unique demands of military life often include extended periods of solo parenting, heightened stress, and frequent relocations. Our Emergency and Casual Childcare services are designed to alleviate these pressures, providing crucial support during unexpected events or transitions. Thanks to RBC Foundation funding, we are excited to broaden this vital service and further assist our community. Being a central resource for military families, we are committed to offering unwavering support, and this partnership enhances our ability to continue this important work.”

Military Family Resource Centres in PEI, Gander, Newfoundland and St. John’s, Newfoundland will use their portions of the donation to boost capacity for emergency healthcare, special needs, crisis intervention, domestic violence and childcare support for families.

Above left: New Brunswick Military Family Resource Centre Childcare Group Photo. Above: from the Halifax MFRC Hannah Oatway, Occasional and Respite Child Care Program Administrator (left) and Leanne Hutchinson, Occasional and Respite Child Care Support Staff .

Imagination Library Partners with Military Family Resource Centres to Foster Literacy and Connection

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, globally acclaimed book-gifting program, has partnered with several Canadian Military Family Resource Centres (MFRCs) to gift books to families with young children. This joint initiative promotes childhood literacy and assists with strengthening bonds in military families and connection to their communities.

Currently, only 10 out of 32 MFRCs are participating – which means when families move from one base to another…. their books stop arriving in the mail. Our goal is to ensure that every military family with young children has access to the ‘gift’ of a free book – every month –no matter where they live! Join us!

The Power of Imagination Library

Books have a profound impact on children. Books provide an opportunity for children to learn to read, help them learn to speak and communicate with confidence, and it supports the development of coping skills. Perhaps more importantly, sharing books also builds stronger family bonds through spending time together, enjoying the stories, cuddling, and having fun. The Imagination Library, founded in 1995 by the legendary country singer Dolly Parton, inspires a love of books and reading

in children from birth to age five. The program gifts age-appropriate, high-quality books and mails them to children’s homes, free to the family regardless of family income.

“Inspiring kids to love reading became my mission,” explained Dolly Parton. “In the beginning, my hope was simply to inspire the children in my home county. However, today, the program has become worldwide, and gives a book a month to more than two million children.” Dolly’s mission, which is rooted in love for her father, who could not read, has now expanded to touch the lives of millions of children around the world. Since its inception, the Imagination Library has delivered over 218 million books worldwide.

Imagination Library & Military Family Resource Centres

The collaboration between Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and the Military Family Resource Centres represents a welcome step in supporting the unique needs of military families. Children in military families endure a unique and demanding lifestyle involving multiple sources of potential stress. Young children may require assistance in dealing with these stressors, such as frequent moves, parental deployment, traumatic experiences, and loss.

Seventeen per cent of our military forces are women, many of them mothers of young children. Many families have two deployed parents or experience frequent multiple deployments.

Children under five live through these stressors

during a critical time in their development. From birth to age five, a child’s brain develops more than at any other time in life; and early brain development has a lasting impact on a child’s ability to learn and to succeed in school and in life. The quality of a child’s experiences in the first few years of life – positive or negative – helps shape how their brain develops.

Kayla, a parent from Petawawa, shared that “the ‘family’ support offered by the MFRC is invaluable, especially when we are so far away from our family and friends. Being able to register my kids for the Imagination Library is an added bonus. With how busy life can be, it’s easy to feel disconnected, but we use reading every night with our children to reconnect with them. Receiving new reading material monthly keeps everyone engaged, and the kids are excited to add the books to their library.”

It is easy to bring Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library turnkey program to your base!

The Dollywood Foundation provides the program to include book selection, book manufacturing and mail distribution. MFRCs promote the program and find families to enroll. There is a small program cost paid by MFRC. Reach out to Jeanne Smitiuch, Senior Regional Director here to get started!

Nora Briggs, Executive Director of The Dollywood Foundation of Canada, explained, “Education is an equalizer, and the ability to read is one of the most precious gifts we can give

CURRENTLY, WE HAVE PARTNERSHIPS WITH:

Calgary MFRC

Comox MFRC

Esquimalt MRFC

MFRC Montreal Region

New Brunswick MFRC

Petawawa MFRC

Mainland BC MFRC

Borden MFRC

Edmonton MFRC

Meadford MFRC

Learn More HERE.

The Imagination Library offers a simple magical solution of stability and continuity for military children by providing access to high-quality books in the comfort of their homes. Reading together is fun and makes families stronger through shared family time, connection to their military communities and early learning.” For more information on bringing the Imagination Library to your community, contact here.

to a child.

Currently Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library partners with 10 Military Family Resource Centres .

RIMPAC 2024

Canada has participated in this biennial exercise, which brings sailors to the Indo-Pacific region, since 1971. RIMPAC offers participants a chance to hone their skills in the realm of maritime operations. This year’s exercise consisted of 29 nations providing approximately 25,000 personnel, 14 land forces, 40 ships, three submarines, and over 150 aircraft. CAF’s participation numbered 650 personnel, three aircraft, and three ships.

OP LENTUS

OP LENTUS, the CAF’s umbrella term for domestic operations combating natural disasters, was once again activated this summer due to the Alberta wildfires. Scores of CAF members from Joint Task Force West and 3rd Canadian Division joined local and provincial rescue teams to combat wildfires destroying forests near Jasper, AB, at the end of July and into early August.

SPRING STORM

A contingent of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members participated in Estonia’s largest military exercise this spring. According to NATO, Exercise SPRING STORM brought together 14,000 Estonian and Allied troops. The soldiers took part in mock battles in Estonian villages to prepare for any threats that NATO may face. threats that NATO may face.

STEADFAST DEFENDER

Approximately 1,000 CAF members participated in the largest NATO exercise in decades. Exercise STEADFAST DEFENDER, which lasted from January to May and took place in various locations across Europe, consisted of sailors, soldiers, aviators, and special forces members.

ABOVE IMAGE: Operation LENTUS Alberta Fires: Members of 2nd Battalion, Princes Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry walk through the town of Jasper, Alberta during Operation LENTUS on July 28th, 2024. Photo Credit Master Sailor Dan Bard, Directorate Army Public Affairs. Image courtesy of CAF.

ABOVE IMAGE: PEARL HARBOR (June 25, 2018) Royal Canadian Navy frigate HMCS Vancouver (FFH 331) arrives at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in preparation for RIMPAC 2018. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Daniel L. Zink)

ABOVE IMAGE: Members of the Canadian Armed Forces conduct urban operations while local citizens go about their day in the town of Abja-Paluoja, Estonia, as part of Exercise SPRING STORM on May 13, 2024.Photo credit: Lt Jennifer Kusche, Canadian Forces Combat Camera, Canadian Armed Forces Photo.

BOOK YOUR FREE 15-MINUTE CONSULTION HERE

RCAF ENTERS GUINNESS WORLD RECORD

To mark its centenary, the RCAF entered the storied pages of Guinness World Record history this April. The RCAF set a record for illuminating the most landmarks around the world in 24 hours. The record was set with 56 landmarks illuminated in 24 hours. The previous record was 38 illuminated landmarks. The record was set on April 1, coinciding with the centennial anniversary.

CONSTRUCTION FOR CANADA’S NEW FLEET WARSHIPS

The next phase of a new fleet of warships was announced by the Minister of National Defence Bill Blair, in June. The new fleet of warships would be known as River-class destroyers, and the first three ships will be named His Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Fraser, Saint-Laurent, and Mackenzie. The ships will be part of Canada’s new fleet of Canadian Surface Combatants (CSC)

NEW VICE CDS

Notable retirements continue to force fundamental changes in Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) leadership. In a change of command ceremony on Friday, August 1, 2024, Lieutenant-General Stephen Kelsey assumed responsibilities as VCDS. The ceremony was presided over by General Jennie Carignan, the newly minted Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS).

NATIONAL PEACEKEEPERS DAY

National Peacekeepers’ Day falls annually on August 9. This year, Canadians also marked the 50th anniversary of the largest single-day loss of Canadian life in a peacekeeping mission. This tragic incident took place when a CAF aircraft on a routine supply flight for the United Nations (UN) peacekeeping mission in the Golan Heights was shot down over Syria, resulting in the death of all nine Canadians aboard.

ABOVE IMAGE: BC Place and Vancouver Lookout are illuminated in Blue on April 1st, 2024, for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Centennial. BC Place and Vancouver Lookout were among the five landmarks in Vancouver which counted towards the RCAF's successful Guinness World Record.

ARMY RUN

The Canadian Army’s signature event, the Army Run, took place this year on Sunday, Sept. 22. As in previous years, the race will offer participants the choice of 5K, 10K, 5K+10K,21K.  The virtual component is also part of this year’s event. All proceeds from the annual event are poured back into the CAF community.

MILITARY FAMILY DAY

Every year, Military Family Appreciation Day, recognized on Sept. 20, gives Canadians and the military community a chance to acknowledge the invisible strength behind the uniform: the family. The day was first established in 2019 thanks to the Together We Stand Foundation.

VETERANS WALK

The seventh annual Veterans Walk took place this year on Sept. 21 and 22 in cities throughout the country. Proceeds from this walk are turned around to support Veterans and to ease the unique challenges they face. This year, the event will be presented and conducted by True Patriot Love.

ABOVE IMAGE:Ccourtesy of True Patriot Love and Canadian Walk for Veterans.

85TH ANNIVERSARY OF SECOND WORLD WAR

This year marks the 85th anniversary of Canada’s entrance into the Second World War. Once Britain had declared war on Germany, Canada quickly followed suit and entered the war on Sept. 10, 1939. Over the next five years, Canadians would bravely answer the call of duty, with upwards of 44,000 paying the ultimate price.

Making History with the Women & Gender-Diverse Physical Fitness and Wellness Program

To mark Women’s History Month, Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) proudly announces the launch of the Women and Gender-Diverse Physical Fitness and Wellness Program, also known as the Women’s Wellness (WW) program.

This trailblazing initiative, spearheaded by Personnel Support Programs (PSP) a Division of CFMWS, provides specialized fitness and wellness programs for women in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and is inclusive of gender-diverse members who may also benefit

The WW program will focus on the different stages of a woman’s career within the CAF, providing tailored support in:

Physical readiness: Supporting with occupational and operational training preparation, including Pre-Basic Military Training.

Injury prevention: Reducing susceptibility to musculoskeletal injuries.

Life stage support: Assisting CAF members during pregnancy and postpartum.

Lifelong wellness: Addressing aging and gender-specific stages like menopause and osteoporosis prevention.

The various phases of the program will be rolled out over the next three years, beginning with the Prenatal and Postpartum Program (PNP3), which launched nationally in September across bases and wings in Canada. This cornerstone initiative marks a historic achievement for CFMWS in advancing women’s wellness and fitness support for CAF members.

To enhance accessibility, the PSP team has improved infant access to CAF fitness and sports facilities to support class participation and reduce barriers for PNP3 participants: group classes and community support to foster an inclusive environment for sharing experiences and receiving guidance. Additionally, PSP staff are offered ongoing professional development opportunities to better support the training needs of women in the CAF. A longitudinal study of the PNP3 program is also underway to track and enhance outcomes, ensuring the program evolves to meet members’ needs. Moving forward, the focus will be on developing a holistic menopause component to the program to provide comprehensive wellness support for this career stage.

I am very excited about this new initiative that reflects the CAF’s unwavering commitment to increasing the representation of women and expanding responsive wellness services and fitness programs, Lieutenant-General M.H.L Bourgon, Commander, Military Personnel Command

the CAF’s unwavering commitment to increasing the representation of women and expanding responsive wellness services and fitness programs,” said Lieutenant-General M.H.L Bourgon, Commander, Military Personnel Command. “We take pride in the proportion of women and gender-diverse members in the CAF and together, we will continue to break down barriers and ensure comprehensive support for all our members at every stage of their career.”

“I am very excited about this new initiative that reflects

Join us in celebrating this historic milestone during Women’s History Month by visiting CFMWS.ca/WomensWellness and following us on social media. Celebrate the launch of the WW program, share your experiences, and help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.

Above: Three CAF members, including Lieutenant-General M.H.L Bourgon, Commander, Military Personnel Command on the right, utilizing the PSP facilities and motivating each other.

TECHNOLOGY, AI, & YOUR CAREER

With the launch of ChatGPT in November 2022, the buzz around AI and how it will affect our lives has increased exponentially. Whether you are pro-AI, just waiting for the day you can wake up and program your personal AI to go to work for you, or if you are among the more hesitant who have perhaps watched Terminator a few too many times, the fact remains that AI is here. It is changing our lives, including how we find and do paid work.

According to research by the World Economic Forum, by 2025 up to 85 million jobs could be displaced by developing technology and AI. At the same time, as many as 97 million new jobs are likely to develop as technology changes, and the way humans adapt to and work with that technology also changes. Could AI take over your job? Well, it is possible. However, it will also create as many or more new jobs in the process. What is inevitable is that AI is going to change the way we work. Increased automation will take over many mundane, tedious, or repetitive tasks that eat up much of our time - scheduling meetings, answering

NATALIE MACLELLAN CAREERS

straightforward questions, and writing work plans or to-do lists. This will free up more time for what we humans are better suited for, including strategic thinking and creative planning. Building on this, we can be sure that the future of work will require new or improved technological skills, and we all need to work on our digital literacy – but it doesn’t stop there. For long-term career stability, we must also focus on interpersonal skills, as our jobs will comprise fewer mundane tasks and more analysis and decision-making roles that rely on problem-solving, decisionmaking, creativity, and overall emotional intelligence.

REMEMBER ATMS

Consider the example of bank tellers. Automated teller machines (ATMs) were introduced in the 1970s and became more prevalent in the 1980s and 1990s. The number of tellers employed by banks was significantly reduced, and many thought that was the end of the job. But what happened instead was the role of tellers changed. Their jobs switched to focus more on advising and sales. Suddenly, communication and negotiation skills became more important, as well as the ability to analyze and assess needs in order to suggest and promote banking products and services like accounts, credit cards, or referring to advisors for investment products.

Another, perhaps more obvious, change is that in the coming years, demand for specialists in artificial intelligence is estimated to grow by 36% per cent. While understanding the technology will be key, these are not all technical jobs, as AI ethics and regulation specialists will also be in demand.Beyond the available jobs, job seekers must also prepare for how AI is changing the job search. Employers have been using forms of AI to filter through resumes and job applications for years. I have written about these Applicant Tracking Systems – or ATS – many times. Programmed with keywords and phrases the employer wants to see, these systems scan application documents and rank candidates based on the presence (or absence) of these keywords.

REVIEWS ARE MIXED

But now, the latest advances in AI allow employees to leverage technology to create their job search documents. Several websites are already offering to write (or rewrite) your resume using AI. This could be a game changer – but for now, I would strongly advise using this as only one of many tools that might help you. Reviews are mixed. AI is still developing and simply cannot do all the work for you.

What you get from these AI resume builders depends greatly on what you put in. Some ask you to upload existing documents, or even applications you wrote for the specific job. So you are still doing the work, and if you aren’t sure what info to feed it, you may not get what you need. You will have to review, edit, and fine-tune any document they give you –applying your knowledge and creativity, or that of a trained and certified resume write.

SAFETY FIRST

You also want to be very aware of what information you are feeding to AI in order for it to generate your resume in the first place. Consider omitting key details like your address and job dates or locations, filling in those details yourself after you get your AI-generated drafts. Once you have uploaded personal information to the AI, you can’t take it back. The AI and the company that owns it now have your personal information. Even if they don’t use it for nefarious purposes, companies get hacked regularly enough, and identity theft is a real problem. Always be careful with your personal information online, especially with programs trained to think.

AI & JOB INTERVIEWS

AI applications don’t stop with resume writing. AI has now entered the realm of job interviews. While certainly not something I would call common, some companies are starting to use one-way, AI-led interviews by phone and video to screen applicants. This is typically done as the first round of interviews, as it can help screen out candidates who don’t meet minimum criteria. How does this work? You may be sent a link with instructions to complete the interview by a specific expiration date. Questions are timed, and your answer is recorded. Often, but not always, you are given 2-5 chances to record your answer so you can start again if you make a mistake. Having participated in an interview like this, I can tell you it felt incredibly awkward.

If you find yourself facing an AI interview, take some time to practice using tools available online. Many companies that run AI interviews allow limited free or paid practice opportunities. Check out the Mock interview from InCruiter or the Candidate Support page from HireVue. LinkedIn also has an AI interview tool that offers feedback to help you improve your performance.If you live in Ontario, you may be interested to know that recent legislation was introduced that, if passed, will make it mandatory for employers to disclose if they are using AI in their hiring process. It is not yet clear exactly what will have to be disclosed and at what level of detail, but this would make it somewhat easier for job seekers to prepare for the process – or remove themselves from competition should they choose. (The same legislation would also require employers to disclose salary ranges in job postings, which is long overdue!)

Better disclosure on the use of AI in hiring and a better understanding of how it works can help job seekers make more informed career decisions. Let’s hope this legislation is passed in Ontario and becomes a model adopted throughout the rest of the country.

Natalie MacLellan is a multi-certified, multi-award-winning resume writer and career strategist. Originally from the East Coast, she is also a military spouse and is currently based in Ottawa. For help with your job search strategy, reach out to Natalie at natalie@bestfootforward.co or visit http://www.bestfootforward.co .

A GOAT RODEO

MONICA BOBBITT

WWe Need to to Kids About Death Talk

hen my husband Dan was killed in a LAV (Light Armoured Vehicle) rollover during Exercise Maple Resolve in May 2014, I was left with the heartbreaking task of telling our children he had died.

I can honestly say I’ve never felt so helpless in my entire life. I struggled to find the right words to use. How do you tell your children that the father they loved so much would never come home again? As I watched them walking up our driveway, knowing that I was about to break their hearts, I also knew it was up to me to help them put those hearts back together. But I had no idea how I was going to do it. Looking back on it all these years later, I see how woefully underprepared for the task I was.

The reality is that most of us have no idea how to talk to our children about death and dying, let alone know how to guide them through bereavement. Like many parents, Dan and I had never actually discussed death with our children. We had’t intentionally avoided the subject, although I‘m sure there was an element of reluctance in our unconscious decision not to discuss it with them. Death isn’t an easy topic to discuss, after all.

Until Dan died, our kids had not experienced the loss of a close friend or family member. Like most children, their first (and only experience with death up until that point) was the death of a pet. Our son’s pet hamster, Pine Cone, had died years earlier while their father was deployed to Afghanistan.

I soothed their tears, placed him in a shoebox, and we buried him under a pine tree (befitting of his name) in our side yard, using a pinecone to mark his grave. After we buried him, we washed away their sorrow with Pepsi and chocolate bars. And that was that. It was a perfect opportunity to tackle the subject of death and grief. But I was reluctant to delve into such a difficult conversation by myself, especially while their father was deployed to Afghanistan. I thought if we discussed it, I would make them sadder and upset them more.

How wrong I was. As parents, our first instinct is to protect our children from the pain of grief by not discussing death with them. However, there is no way to shelter children from the reality of death, illness,or injury. When we don’t discuss it, we’re giving them the message that it’s scary and that it’s something that shouldn’t be talked about. Most children are aware of death, even if they don’t understand it. This is especially true for military children, who often live in a constant cycle of moves, deployments, and reintegration. We may try to protect them from the news of a service-related death or injury, but it is almost inevitable they will find out.Our kids are finely attuned to our responses. They know when something is wrong.

They overhear our conversations and notice if we stop talking when they enter the room. They inadvertently see news broadcasts. When a classmat\e’s parent is injured or killed on a deployment or training exercise, they often hear about it on the playground. By withholding information from them about these incidents, we unwittingly add to their anxiety. Children gather information where they can, and without parental discussions to guide them, they guess at what they don’t know or understand in an attempt to make sense of what has happened.

Their very vivid imaginations can form false or problematic beliefs that make the situation much worse than it is. This may lead to heightened anxiety and anticipatory grief the next time their parent deploys. None of us ever wants our children to deal with the heartbreak of losing someone or something they love, but the reality is, many of them will. As parents, we can’t protect them from grief and loss, but we can help prepare them for when that time comes. That preparation starts with discussing death and dying with them at an early age in developmentally appropriate ways.

First and foremost, be honest and straightforward. We often use euphemisms to soften the blow, but these cause confusion, fear, and false hope. Don’t use phrases such as gone, lost, or sleeping, as they imply their loved one can be found (lost) or come back (gone). Additionally, telling a child a deceased loved one is sleeping may cause them to become fearful that they, too, will die when they are sleeping. Share information in doses.

Kids process information in bits and pieces over time, so take the conversation slowly to not overwhelm them. If they ask you a question you don’t have the answer for, tell them you don’t know. Give them the choice of whether or not they want to participate in funeral rituals. If they do choose to attend the funeral, tell them what to expect. If there will be an open casket, explain what this means. If it is a military funeral, explain this will entail a uniformed honour guard, gun salute, ceremonial passing of the flag, etc.

Let them see you cry. Stoicism is often a much-needed quality in military families during moves and deployments, but it hinders the grieving process. It’s important for our kids to see us grieve. It lets them know it’s normal and healthy to cry after someone dies. Grief is a natural response to loss, and we need to normalize it. Be prepared to talk to them about their thoughts and feelings often. And remember, kids don’t grieve the same way as adults do. Don’t expect their reactions to being the same as yours. Nothing can ever fully prepare us for the death of a loved one. But being able to talk about it openly and honestly with our children is key to healthy grieving.

Monica was a military spouse for almost 21 years, until her husband was tragically killed in a LAV rollover during Ex Maple Resolve at CFB Wainwright in May 2014. Monica writes about her experiences as a military wife and widow in her blog, A Goat Rodeo, where she openly and honestly discusses what it’s really liked to be widowed and shares the wisdom she has learned as she continues to move forward with her life. She also shares her story with military members and their families at speaking events across the country.

CRITTERS & CREATURES

BY Mishall Rehman

World Animal Day 2024: Humane Practices Regarding Animals

For the last nine decades, animal lovers around the world have united annually on World Animal Day to champion animal rights and welfare.

World Animal Day is celebrated annually on Oct. 4, the day to honour the patron saint of ecology and animals, Saint Francis of Assisi. Its purpose is to “end the needless suffering

Origins of World Animal Day

World Animal Day traces its origins to Germany. It was started by German cynologist Heinrich Zimmermann. The first World Animal Day was celebrated on March 24, 1925. To recognize the first event of its kind, a celebration was organized at the Sports Palace in Berlin in 1925. It attracted a crowd of more than 5,000Almost one hundred years later, celebrating World Animal Day has spread to all corners of the world.

Power of Animals

Launched on Oct. 4, Power of Animals hopes to motivate Canadians to be a voice for change and more humane practices regarding animals. The main target of this campaign is fields of industry that exploit animals such as factory farming and exploitative commercial wildlife trade, according to the international animal welfare charity.

“Animal welfare is human welfare. There are direct links between global animal exploitation and challenges like climate change, food security and pandemics. From what we choose to eat and buy to what we do when we travel, understanding that when animals thrive, we all thrive helps us all make better personal choices and support lasting change,” said

Animal cruelty

Cruelties toward animals impact our everyday lives, whether we recognize it or not. According to the Power of Animals campaigns there are many vital areas that could use humans to stand against the overuse and abuse of animals.

For example, our food system is responsible for a third of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. And according to

Other ways of celebrating

World Animal Day is celebrated around the world, and there is no wrong way to mark this day. From fundraising to school events to peaceful protests, World Animal Protection encourages

of all animals.” Around the world, people celebrate this day by holding educational events like workshops, fundraising, and harnessing the power of social media. Here in Canada, World Animal Protection launched a campaign on World Animal Day to highlight the pivotal role animals and their welfare play in all facets of life. The campaign is called Power of Animals

“Building the celebration and awareness of World Animal Day mobilises people globally for action now, which makes a better future for animals,” states the World Animal Protection website. The goal today is to use education and awareness to “create a space recognizing wild and farmed animals as sentient beings with thoughts, feelings and individual personalities,” explains the website.

Colin Saravanamuttoo, Executive Director of World Animal Protection Canada, in a statement. To ensure the success of this monumental new campaign, World Animal Protection will use an anonymous donation of $2.8 million.

UNDERLYING FUND GROWTH

“We are thrilled to mark World Animal Day with the launch of the Power of Animals campaign, which highlights how we can end animal suffering and also address global challenges like climate change, species extinction, and public health threats.

“The generous gift of $2.8 Million will make a real difference as we work to end animal exploitation around the world and build a more compassionate and sustainable future,” said Saravanamuttoo.

World Animal Protection, every meal switched to a plant-based meal reduces an individual’s carbon footprint by four kilograms.

In our own backyard, it’s reported that North Americans are active participants in the commercial wildlife trade. According to the Power of Animals campaign, between 2014 and 2019, 1.8 million wild animals were imported into Canada.

people to find different ways to celebrate as individuals and as a community. The ultimate goal is to ensure the world is working together for the protection and safety of animals. Leran more here

In a 7-year period (2014-2020)

More than 1.8 million wild animals were imported into Canada.

SPECIES COUNTIRES REASON

Ideas To Make the Most of Autumn

Some of us have been waiting all year for fall to come around. The smells of warm apple pie, pumpkin spice, and fallen leaves fill the air as we bundle up in our cozy sweaters and flannel..

With the crisp autumn air and the thrill of haunting season upon us, it’s the perfect time to indulge in both, indoor and outdoor boo-tastic activities. Whether taking a brisk walk in the park, a cozy day indoors, or a spooky night out, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in October.

With Thanksgiving, Oktoberfest, and Halloween celebrated this month, it is a time for families and friends to get together, be thankful for what we have, and celebrate. Whether you are a fan of pumpkin spice or not, October is undoubtedly the month of the pumpkin, from lattes to pies to carving them.

If you are looking for activities to do this month - look no more! we have a few suggestions so lean in and take in October! Halloween activities you can do with your family this year.

1.Take a Hike

Get outside with your friends and family and take in the beautiful fall colours. Find a trail, or go for a pumpkin-spookular walk in the park.

2.Visit a Farmers’ Market

Drop by the farmers’ market and support your local businesses and vendors. This time of year, you can snag fresh produce and treats for Thanksgiving, or maybe you want to enjoy a goul-icious dessert.

3.Carve or Decorate Pumpkins

If heading out to the pumpkin patch is too much of a hassle with your little goblins, most grocery stores sell pumpkins. Take the kids to pick out a mummy-nificent pumpkin to carve or decorate at home. Make sure you pick up your pumpkin before Halloween, to ensure you get one. There have been years where they stores have sold out.

Organize a Scavenger Hunt

Movie Night with Treats

Decorate Your House

4. Crafts

There are fang-tastic ideas on the internet when it comes to crafting and Halloween. If it’s a rainy day, stay in and look up fun fall crafts you can do with your family to keep them engaged and busy.

5. Decorate Your House

Don’t forget to decorate the house for the season. With Thanksgiving and Halloween here, and all the witch-tastic colours on the trees, decorating your house will be like magic! You can make your own or purschase some. Don’t forget to visit your local secondhand store - you might find a fright-tastic deal.

6. Apple | Pumpkin Picking

Spending the day at the farm sounds like a spell-binding time for the famjam. Whether you are picking apples or pumpkins, maybe getting lost in a maze, there is nothing more memorable than spending an autumn afternoon at the farm. Take in the fresh air, on an autumn warm day together as a family or group of friends.

7. Scavenger Hunt

Why not add to the fun of the season and plan a spooky scavenger hunt? With each clue, leave a variety of candy and treats. Make sure you check out the next page for our spook-tacular scavenger hunt ideas!

8. Movie Night with Treats

Nothing kicks off the fall/Halloween season like a classic fall and Halloween movie marathon. Sit down with some popcorn and a warm blanket and put on some classic films for the season and have a scare-tacular time. Check our out family picks here.

9. Stargazing

This time of year is a fang-tastic time to look up and take in stargazing. With the evening being crisp and clear autumn this is the perfect time to bundle up under a cozy blanket and take in the stunning night views. The Northern hemisphere offers fantascic views of several constellations, planets, and astronomical features.

10. Bake Halloween | Fall Goodies

Pumpkin pies, apple crisps, cheesecake, cobblers, and cookies are all things you can bake this fall. Pull out your family recipe book, or Google classic fall recipes and bake for your family or with them. If you want to put your decorating skills to the test, try baking Halloween sugar cookies that you can decorate with the kids.

Take a Hike

Bake Halloween/Fall Goodies

Carve or Decorate Pumpkins

Planning a Eerie-sistible HALLOWEEN SCAVENGER HUNT

If

you’re looking for a fun activity the whole family can do together or to entertain the kids at a Halloween Party, why not create a spooky Halloween Scavenger Hunt?

You can pick up supplies at the local dollar store or search through the Halloween decoration totes for some great objects. You could even have fun making some goodies in the kitchen. Nature can also provide great objects and offer opportunities to take the kids on a hike or a walk in the park.

Creepy Jack O’Lantern

Skeleton mask

Treat bag full of treats

CREATE HUNT BAGS

Get started by giving each kid a white fabric bag with a drawstring or handles. Then, give them coloured fabric markers and stickers to decorate their bags. Tell them they’ll be using these bags to collect the goodies and objects. While the kids decorate their Hunt Bags, play spooky music in the background.

Popular Songs: Thriller, Monster Mash, Time Warp, Purple People Eater, Somebody’s Watching Me and Ghostbusters.

A spooky scavenger hunt can be inside or outside or both. You’ll need to create a list for each little goblin. Your list should include spooky clues as to where they might find each object

IDEAS & EXAMPLES

Find a sparkly purple witch’s wand in the backyard where the spiders like to hide.

Find the items you need to create the best Jack O’Lantern inside the place where we keep the things you like to read.

SCAVENGER HUNT IDEAS

DVD of a Halloween movie

Red Cowboy Hat

Halloween socks

Tall Witch Hat

King Arthur’s sword

Fuzzy green spider

Box of decorated cookies

Jack O’Lantern tool kit

Halloween make-up

Five different sized Acorns

Firefighters hat

Clown’s nose

Bony Skeleton

Princess wig

Kitty ears

Giant bag of potato chips

Goosebumps book

Don’t forget a great party needs cool decorations. Make your Halloween party memorable by decorating inside and out. Get the kids involved in drawing and colouring decorations. Get them to help you decorate, and maybe take them shopping for the perfect Halloween costume or some new decorations. However, if you decide to create your Halloween Scavenger Hunt, make fun the main objective, and everyone will be sure to have a memorable time. Happy Halloween!

MFRC is a Four-Letter Word you need to remember!

Be sure to register with your MFRC and check the consent box on your Family Care Plan

There are so many moving parts and stresses that come with any type of move. Especially a military move.  So many thing s to consider, to plan, to put in place.

It is often one of the most stressful things that happens in a military family’s life!

We, in the CAF, have access to a group of services that can help us through this stressful time (and many others) by providing us with resources, information and contacts to help guide us during our move:  your local Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC.)

MFRCs are located at all bases and wings across Canada. Services are also available to our OUTCAN members, and there is a substantial virtual presence.  MFRC locations and services can be viewed on this website CFMWS by selecting your local community.  This will set you on your journey to the many services available in your area or at your next posting.

So how do we access these services?

As you can imagine, the mandate to support families and the local military community can be a tough one to manage.  For Privacy reasons, the MFRC cannot reach out to every person or family through a process of “cold calling” – they

require consent and must rely on the proactive provision of personal information by the member or their dependants before they are permitted to reach out. The absolute best way to access services is to walk in and meet the people who work at your local MFRC.

Talk to them, see what they have to offer, register with them and provide them with your contact information so that they can connect with you and your family.

Our CAF members also have the option of providing family contact information and consent to provide this information from their orderly room during their Annual Readiness Verification.  During this annual check, members must fill out the Family Care Plan Form and check whether or not they wish to have the orderly room provide this contact information to the MFRC in accordance with DAOD 5044-1 Families.

And, finally, go to their website CFMWS, select  your local community scroll down and check out the different ways you can contact them to stay connected. Family support is an important part of keeping CAF members operationally focused. By taking this one small step, members and their families can enjoy the many benefits offered by their local MFRC and feel better supported as military community in knowing what services are available when, where and how they need them.

Some of the services and assistance offered could include:

Facilitating a family’s integration into their new community and helping the family choose an environment that meets their needs (daycare, school, local services, special needs, etc)

Supporting the transition from one province to another (driver’s license, family doctor, daycare, etc)

When operational tempo gets overwhelming, the MFRC can assist with many things like providing navigational assistance with finding options for casual daycare, respite care, etc,

Providing access to services to help deal with children’s behavioural issues and reactions to changes (moving, absences, re-integration)

Being a conduit to a member’s parents when they are worried, have no news or may need reassurance

Facilitating the development of social and mutual aid networks through activities designed to alleviate isolation

Assisting with any other requirements for information, guidance, referral and support to promote family well-being

Award-Winning Education Taught by Renowned Chefs

A New Career Path for Veterans

By Mishall Rehman

Le Cordon Bleu continues to be celebrated on the world stage for its culinary education, making it a top choice for veterans seeking a second career. This prestigious institution is now gaining popularity within the veteran community, offering a promising path into the culinary world."Our programs are popular, the campus has great heritage and

history, and it's gaining more traction within the veteran community. The success of our students is evident for all to see," said Abhishek Sharma, Sales and Marketing Director at Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa. In recent months, Le Cordon Bleu has introduced new programs, garnered support from the military community, and achieved numerous awards, encouraging more veterans to enrol.

Left: Chef Yannick Anton, the executive chef at the campus’ Signatures restaurant and cuisine chef instructor, recently received the Chevalier de l’Ordre du Mérite Agricole, a top culinary honour from the French Ministry of Agriculture. Above: The Ottawa campus’ Le Cordon Bleu restaurant Signatures.

VETERAN

Joining the National Resource Directory : An Important Step

In June, Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa became a member of the National Resource Directory (NRD), receiving endorsement and backing from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and the Military Transition Engagement Partnerships (MTEP).

The NRD is "an online database of organizations that empower the military, Veteran, and family (MVF) communities throughout the MCT transition journey," according to the CAF. This verification makes Le Cordon Bleu a trusted source for military members and veterans. The institution also extends its services to family members, supported by the Education Training Benefit.

A Proven Home for Veterans

Le Cordon Bleu has welcomed veterans from the Royal Canadian Navy, Canadian Army, and Royal Canadian Air Force, who find the institution's ethos aligned with military principles such as discipline, precision, punctu -

ality, and hard work. "After serving 28 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, I retired and, thanks to Veterans Affairs, enrolled in Le Cordon Bleu's Diplôme de Cuisine program to pursue my passion for cooking.

The curriculum was challenging yet rewarding. The course progresses from basic to advanced techniques, with experienced instructors ensuring all students reach their full potential," shared MWO (ret'd) Dean Sackett. Veterans transitioning to a culinary career can enjoy personalized learning under expert chefs in a small class environment.

The institute offers flexible programs to accommodate individual experiences and stressors. Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa is also a member of the CMV3C Consortium, further solidifying its commitment to supporting veterans.

A New Plant-Based Program

Culinary enthusiasts can explore Le Cordon Bleu's new plant-based cuisine program. "If you look globally, the trend is shifting towards healthier cooking and eating habits," noted Sharma.

Launched last year, this program quickly gained interest, appealing to both plant-based diet enthusiasts and those curious about this culinary trend. The three-month course delves into crafting dishes from plants, teaching students about a wide range of ingredients and innovative culinary uses.

Award-Winning Staff

Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa has been nominated for North America's Best Culinary Training Institution at the World Culinary Awards for the fourth consecutive year, having won the award for the last three years. Additionally, Chef Yannick Anton, the executive chef at the campus' Signatures restaurant and cuisine chef instructor, recently received the Chevalier de l'Ordre du Mérite Agricole, a top culinary honour from the French Ministry of Agriculture. This award recognizes Chef Yannick's exceptional contributions to promoting French culture and arts in Canada. Le Cordon Bleu's accolades and Chef Yannick's recognition affirm the institution as an ideal place for former members of the Canadian Armed Forces to embark on a new career and find a welcoming community.

Above images: Top left to right: Le Cordon Bleu recently introduced a plant-based cuisine program. Canadian Armed Forces Veteran Sam Bruce receiving instruction. Chef Yannick Anton. Le Cordon Bleu students. Le Cordon Bleu student accomodations. Learn more here

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Improving Mobility with a Physiotherapist

When managing your pain, seeing a physiotherapist might be the answer. Whether the pain is from surgery, an accident, or an injury, physiotherapists aim to help people affected by injury, illness, or disability through movement and exercise, manual therapy, education, and advice. With a hands-on medical profession that is evidence-based and experience-informed, physiotherapists work with their clients to improve mobility and movement. “While not everything we do has scientific evidence, much has and is new and emerging evidence is appearing for much of what we have known,” Jacquie Levy, Clinical Physiotherapy Specialist – Neuro-Sciences and director of the Ontario Physiotherapy Association Board, stated. Physiotherapists treat their clients with hands-on techniques and therapeutic exercises rather than prescribing medications. In some cases, clients might need medication, but many medications have side effects. Often, physiotherapists treat the symptom and not the underlying cause. Some of the injuries commonly treated by physiotherapists include repetitive strain injuries, such as tennis elbow and golfers’ elbow. Levy noted that medications could be helpful in some circumstances

if “you haven’t potentially fixed the biomechanical issue of someone repeating an action, perhaps with poor alignment. So, a physiotherapist is one of the best health care practitioners to go to in terms of changing how you’re using it to try and to stop it from reoccurring.”

Covers Different Areas

Physiotherapy is a profession that covers many different areas. Physiotherapists see patients with musculoskeletal issues like sprains, strains, back and neck problems, and arthritis. Physiotherapists also treat people with chronic, persistent pain: pain that occurs when the initial injury has healed, but the brain keeps remembering the pain. Pelvic floor issues are also among the types of problems physiotherapists treat. In addition, they work in the field of complex rehab. This includes treating people who have had traumatic injuries such as an amputation, been in a motor vehicle accident or have suffered a brain injury such as a concussion or other neurological injuries such as a stroke or spinal cord injury. Physiotherapists also treat patients who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, to name a few. “If there’s weakness, if there’s pain, if there’s loss of function, it probably falls into the scope of physiotherapy,” Levy added. The goal at the end of the day is function, according to Levy. “Physio is about getting

a treatment plan based on the exam. Levy mentioned that people tend to wait longer than they should before making an appointment with a physiotherapist. “We like to see people as soon as possible after an injury or other diagnoses to prevent it from becoming a persistent issue or to prevent secondary issues from arising,” she said, “it is important to make sure that people are accessing these services at the right time and getting the right treatment.”

Education

A physiotherapist must obtain a four-year undergraduate degree, usually in human kinetic or health sciences. After this, a physiotherapist completes a two-year master’s in physiotherapy. Levy explained, “Students come in with a good knowledge of anatomy and physiology. During their post graduate physiotherapy studies, students learn about pathologies and all the treatment modalities that we can use.”

you back to the best possible function you can so that you can participate in your life. I like the model that looks at what your impairment or injury is and then looks at how this impacts your ability to function and perform activities of daily living. For example, can you get on and off a toilet? Can you get in and out of your car? Can you cook meals for your family? Then, it looks at participation. Can you participate in leisure activities and community activities that give you pleasure and meaning?”

Making an Appointment

When setting up an appointment, finding a physiotherapist who works in the area of your ailment to ensure they can address your pain is important. It is preferable to see someone who has experience, said Levy. At your first appointment, you can help your physiotherapist by bringing a list of your medications and any test reports like x-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs or CAT scans. Once the physiotherapist looks over these documents, they will perform an examination, which includes taking a history and performing relevant tests such as checking your range of motion, strength, sensation and any possible cause of pain. They will be interested in how you are functioning day-to-day. The physiotherapist will then suggest

Military Families

In a physically demanding field of work, like serving in the Canadian Armed Forces, various injuries could arise. When talking about military members, she said that physiotherapists see patients who have experienced both severe injuries and minor injuries, such as strains and sprains. When dealing with significant injuries, such as a brain injury, spinal cord injury or nerve injury, these are things that take a long time and, “often the patient will might need the involvement of a multidisciplinary rehabilitation,” she noted. “I hope that person’s living with injuries and illnesses understand that there’s always hope,” Levy expressed, “We see amazing things happen with treatment. It takes a lot of courage and hard work, but there’s always hope for some recovery and function.”

Health Coverage

The Public Service Health Care Plan notes that eligible public service employees and retirees, including Canadian Armed Forces veterans and their families, do not need a prescription to see a physiotherapist. The plan covers a maximum of $1,500 per calendar year and reimburses 80 percent of eligible expenses.

Testing their Mettle: Canada Army Competitions

CANADA’S ARMY IS COMPRISED OF THOUSANDS OF BRAVE, STRONG AND BATTLE-READY SOLDIERS. EACH YEAR, TO TEST THEIR METTLE AND GRIT, SOLDIERS ACROSS THE COUNTRY TAKE PART IN ENDURANCE COMPETITIONS.

by Mishall Rehman

Exercise SACKETS HARBOUR

Formerly known as Exercise BUSH MAN, Exercise SACKETS HARBOUR is another Canadian Army competition that tests competitors’ endurance. The close to 200 soldiers taking part in this competition come from  2nd Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment and the other units from 5 Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown. Much like other similar exercises, SACKETS HARBOUR is comprised of a ruck marching, portaging and canoeing.

The distance is 27.4km with a rucksack that weighs 30 lbs. “The aim of Ex SACKETS HARBOUR is to foster a competitive atmosphere while building morale and core soldiering skills,” states the Canadian Army. Exercise SACKETS HARBOUR typically takes place in mid-August. However, much like Exercise IRON WARRIOR, next year’s dates have not been finalized due to operational commitments. Specifically, because 2 Canadian Mechanised Brigade Group will deploy to Latvia as part of Operation REASSURANCE.

Exercise IRON WARRIOR

Exercise IRON WARRIOR, held annually at Garrison Petawawa, typically brings together competitors from 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group. However, soldiers from other formations across Ontario take part, such as the Royal Military College of Canada which had a strong contingent this year, claiming the top prize for both the male and female categories. IRON WARRIOR is truly a test of endurance that brings together 400 competitors. This year the exercise consisted of 483 competitors-

The competition consists of two events: a 21 km sprint and a 42 km marathon. The sprint consists of 15.3 km of rucking, 1 km of portaging, and 4.7km of canoeing.

The marathon comprises 31.2km of rucking, 2.6 km of portaging, and 8.2km of canoeing. According to the Canadian Army, the weight of the rucksack depends on the participant’s weight, with the rucksack weighing between 25 and 35 lbs. “Ex IRON WARRIOR provides our soldiers with an opportunity to push their mental and physical limits in a safe, and controlled competition.

Physical and mental fitness is a key part of readiness and participation in events like Exercise IRON WARRIOR, which highlights how members of 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group are ready for deployments at home and abroad,” said a spokesperson for the Canadian Army.

The competition typically takes place in August. This year, it was held on Aug. 23 and Aug. 24. The dates for next year have not been finalized since 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group is set to deploy to Latvia as part of Operation REASSURANCE.

Exercise MOUNTAIN RAM. Image courtesy Canadian Armed Forces

Ex SACKETS HARBOUR.

Image courtesy Canadian Armed Forces

Formerly known as

Exercise

BUSH

MAN, Exercise

SACKETTS HARBOUR is another Canadian Army competition that tests competitors’ endurance.

STRONG CONTENDER & MOUNTAIN RAM

These competitions are known as Exercises IRON WARRIOR, STRONG CONTENDER and SACKETTS HARBOUR.

STRONG CONTENDER

This inter-unit multi-sport competition brings together thousands, sometimes even topping 4,000, soldiers at CFB Edmonton annually for some friendly competition. Sports that competitors take part in include weightlifting, grappling, hockey, soccer, volleyball, and more.

“Over the course of a week, teams from each unit compete against each other. Results are recorded, and units are awarded for achieving the top 3 positions in each discipline and the overall top 3 positions at the end of the event,” said the Canadian Army. STRONG CONTENDER brings together soldiers from 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group, including 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group units based in Shilo, MB. Other Edmonton-based units are also invited to participate. This sports competition is typically held in early January after the holiday season.

Exercise MOUNTAIN RAM

Although Exercise MOUNTAIN RAM has been cancelled this year due to operational commitments, it is typically another signature event of the Western Canadian Army. Taking place at CFB Edmonton, MOUNTAIN RAM consists of representation from 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group and, oftentimes, other Edmonton-based units. Exercise MOUNTAIN RAM, much like STRONG CONTENDER, is a brigade-wide exercise. Each unit sends a team, but there are generally additional military teams that compete. Last year, the exercise brought together 217 competitors

This intensive exercise is a 29-km race comprised of a rucksack march, a canoe portage, and a canoe paddle. A true test of physical endurance, soldiers are also competing against the clock, with the fastest soldier and unit winning. The route, which winds through the Edmonton Valley, provides another layer of complexity for the participants. “Activities such as MOUNTAIN RAM and STRONG CONTENDER are meant to promote fitness, healthy competition and, inculcate a warfighter ethos, and foster esprit de corps across the formation,” said a Canadian Army spokesperson.

Ex IRON WARRIOR Image courtesy Canadian Armed Forces

Ex SACKETS HARBOUR. Image courtesy Canadian Armed Forces

STRONG CONTENDER. Image courtesy Canadian Armed Forces

Exercise MOUNTAIN RAM. Image courtesy Canadian Armed Forces

LGBT Purge survivor

appointed Honorary Colonel to CPCC

By Jill Kruse

When veteran Michelle Douglas was offered the opportunity to get back in uniform after being fired from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) 35 years ago, she thought long and hard about it. She describes her departure from the forces after a distinguished service record as a young officer as traumatic and demoralizing.

Douglas is a survivor of the “LGBT Purge”, a term applied to the Government of Canada’s discriminatory practice and unjust treatment towards Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and additional sexual and gender identities (2SLGBTQI+), federal public servants, members of the CAF and the RCMP. She served as an officer in the CAF for three years (1986-1989) when she was honorably discharged for being deemed “not advantageously employable due to homosexuality”. In December 2023, Defence Minister Bill Blair appointed Douglas as the first Honorary Colonel for Chief, Professional Conduct and Culture (CPCC).

“I was very surprised,” recalls Douglas. “I didn’t know very much about the role of honorary colonels. But as soon as I was approached, I started to dig in and learn more, and really think deeply about the possibility of serving again. The military and I had a very difficult parting many years ago. But I had been thinking of ways to continue to help the military change to the extent that I could. The more I learned about this honorary role, I could really see myself in it.”

She says being nominated and then appointed by Minister Blair to the Chief, Professional Conduct and Culture organization, was about as perfect a fit she could imagine. “We’re both very aligned on the mission of supporting an evolved culture in the Canadian Armed Forces. I’m quite honoured to now have the role and find a way to serve my country in this way again.”

Minister Blair described Douglas as an ideal candidate for the position. “For decades Michelle Douglas has stood up for what is right and fought to build a more inclusive Canada where everyone is treated with respect and fairness. Her extraordinary commitment to all citizens of this country especially 2SLGBTQI+ communities, makes her the perfect Honorary Colonel to advance cultural change at National Defence and in the Canadian Armed Forces. I thank Ms. Douglas for taking on this role, and I look forward to working with her to build a safe and healthy work environment where everyone can reach their potential.”

if you showed up as a young woman, slightly interested in the military with a university degree, I think it was their job not to let you out that door unless they had signed you up.”

At the time she says the military had a policy regarding homosexuality called CFAO 19-20. “It had evolved by 1986 to say (euphemistically), and I’ll put it in quotes, ‘if you’re gay you can stay, but under a few conditions. No promotions, no pay raise, no postings or no training.” She says these conditions were oppressive. “And what wasn’t written in policy is that they were continuing to find every way possible to drive people like me out. It was while I was in the military that I met a fellow officer and fell in love for the first time. And she was lovely, but it also caused me a lot of trouble with the military police authorities. I think it’s also important to note that early in my career, I was doing extremely well, graduating at the top of every military course I took.”

“If you’re gay you can stay, but under a few conditions. No promotions, no pay raise, no postings or no training.”

As a result, she was posted to the Special Investigations Unit at CFB Toronto—only the second female officer ever to be posted there. Her job was to conduct serious crime investigations within the military, including allegations of homosexuality.

Ultimately someone she knew well became an informant against her to the very unit in which she was employed. This led to her being interrogated by the military police for days at a time in hotel rooms.

“This involved asking me really sexualized and difficult questions; the kinds of things that you remember all your life. Very humiliating, shaming. I was actually very young. Only about 22 years old. And I didn’t have a strong connection to the LGBTQ community at that time; didn’t have a gay community that I was part of. It still remains a shock to me at some level that I was actually fired, with the words, ‘not advantageously employable due to homosexuality’ on my release documents.”

Thinking back to when she first joined the military, Douglas remembers feeling ‘really proud’ to join the Canadian Armed Forces and become a commissioned officer. “I already had a university degree and was looking for things to do. I wanted to join the military police. I went into a recruiting center. And, in 1986,

If being fired wasn’t demeaning enough, the military also gave Douglas an ultimatum she could not refuse. “Just before I was released, the military required me to tell my family. They said that I would remain a security risk if I didn’t. They gave me 24 hours to do it and said if I didn’t come out to my parents that they would send the police to do it. It remains for me, one of the more emotional and sad experiences of my time in the military; even for people who struggle with the idea that LGBT people are in

VETERAN

the military; they see this kind of an action as just cruel and unacceptable.”

Douglas had no choice. She went to see her father, a senior public servant in Ottawa at the time. “From that moment, my father supported me. He said: I’ll help you tell mom. And we did, and I’m so glad. They’ve stood by me. It was the first conversation. They have stood by me in the best way that any family could and that you would only hope for. And that’s not the story for many, but it was my story and I’m so grateful to have them by my side.”

Challenging CAF policy of discrimination

When she left the military, she says she was in a fog for a while. Eventually Douglas joined the public service where she worked for the Department of Justice for almost three decades.

With the work of many people, including herself, Douglas says that policy of discrimination has changed. Shortly after being purged by the military, she launched a landmark lawsuit that formally ended that policy of discrimination in the Canadian Armed Forces. With the support of Canada’s first openly gay member of parliament, Svend Robinson, Douglas found the courage to pursue justice.

“Svend took me to see a lawyer by the name of Clayton Ruby, who at the time was one of the most well-known lawyers in the entire country. And he was eager to take on the military. Keep in mind I was fired in 1989. The Charter of Rights was in place by 1985; Section 15, the equality rights provision clause was in place, and there should have been constitutional protections for people like me in the military. But the military was slow to adapt. My lawsuit sped them up. On the eve of a three-week trial, the military settled out of court with me.”

Douglas received a financial settlement and then she says the CAF began looking after all the people who were continuing to serve Canada under the discriminating policy of no postings and no promotions.

“They returned some of their dignity by giving them their proper rank, proper back pay, their proper promotions, postings and training. I call it restoring their dignity.” From that moment on, she says CAF allowed any person who is LGBTQ to apply without an instant barrier for application. “It changed the lives of a lot of people. That’s quite an effect. But some people have asked me, why I didn’t come for the others back then? The reality is that there wasn’t any class action lawsuits allowed in Canada at that time.”

Class Action Suit

For many years, Douglas says it wasn’t always the right time or circumstance to launch a class action suit. But still, groups were seeking legal equality through legal challenges and political actions for decades. “Maybe it wasn’t the right political environment. And the laws may not have been fully in place to allow things like class action lawsuits. But eventually, with the election of the Trudeau government, the political climate changed and in 2015 a number of purge survivors were looking for an apology.”

Douglas did not get actively involved because she was working for the federal government, and it was a little too close to her job. But many people were pushing for an apology and eventually a class action lawsuit was established by three representative plaintiffs.

A lead lawyer named Douglas Elliott took on the case and launched it in 2016. They were in settlement negotiations by the time Prime Minister Trudeau delivered an apology in the House of Commons. She recalls the moment. “I was seated in the House of Commons directly across from the Prime Minister in the public gallery. They brought a bunch of purge survivors into the House of Commons. And the Prime Minister delivered that apology in the people’s house, in the House of Commons, while

Michelle Douglas Honorary Colonel for Chief, Professional Conduct and Culture.

looking up at a wall of people who had been so shamed, so traumatized. Some people had been institutionalized, harassed, assaulted, and damaged.”

The class action lawsuit reached a successful point shortly after that time and was finalized in 2018. Douglas says the class action lawsuit gave people some measure of justice including financial settlements, which she was not eligible for because of her legal settlement back in 1992. “However, I was able to get things like an individual letter of apology. And we received the Canada Pride Citation pin that we wear either on uniforms or on civilian clothes that is only given to survivors of the purge. When I’m wearing this pin, we recognize each other; you might not always know each other but you know a lot about that person, you know what they’ve been through and it’s not good.”

Settlement for Survivors

Much of the settlement sum, approximately $145 million, was designated for survivors of the purge. All claimants received financial compensation, based on an assessment of damage through a grid system typically used in lawsuits. Approximately 720 people applied for compensation through the class action lawsuit. “Over 9,000 people were investigated by federal authorities between the 1950s and the mid-90s. However, only about 720 people were represented in the Class Action. We looked for them. We looked for a lot of people, many I talked to myself; many of them said: I didn't suffer enough and feel others deserve it more than I do. Or, it's too painful, I can't tell these stories again. Or, I never came out to my family... you know, it broke me; I've never been the same since. And I begged them. In fact, many of us went and sat with other survivors. I said, talk to me, tell me what you can, I'll write the words. We'll get it in (so they didn't have to go in person). They could just send in their stories. At the most serious levels of trauma and harm, most involving assaults or sexual assaults, these were the greatest number of claimants.”

LGBT Purge Fund

Another $23 million was set aside for reconciliation and memorialization measures. The LGBT Purge Fund was established of which Douglas is now Executive Director.

“That money is symbolically representative of people who experienced the purge, but did not live long enough to make a claim in the class action because dead people or their estates cannot participate in the suit. So, the LGBT Purge Fund was established, and I am its first Executive Director.

What an honour to do this work, with many others who’ve been fighting a long time for justice. The fund has five court mandated responsibilities: “One is to work with government partners to build the 2SLGBTQI+ national monument. And that’s well underway in Ottawa. More than $11 million will be spent on building that.” She says they are also working with the Canadian Museum for Human Rights to launch an exhibit about the LGBT Purge. It’s a large-scale exhibit at the Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg and will launch late January 2025.

“So, we have the monument, the exhibit at the Human Rights Museum, we’re collecting historical records, and we already have 10,000 pages from the government posted on our website that tell the story of how this came about. And we’re getting another 15,000 next summer.

We also worked with the federal government, the military and the RCMP to write a report, calling on them to implement some better practices regarding diversity and inclusion, particularly for the 2SLGBTQI+ community. It’s called Emerging from the Purge. So those are the four big projects. But we also offer grants to memorialize the purge to support purge survivors. And we have organized social occasions where we buy rounds of drinks to thank these people. We have commissioned books, flyers, documentaries, podcasts, oral history recordings and plays. We’ve issued grants for all of this. It’s really quite a powerful thing. We’ve given more than a million dollars in grants so far.”

Douglas says the Class Action suit has made a tremendous difference in the lives of those affected by the purge, but she says her lawsuit also had a significant impact on changing policy in the Canadian military. “I may not have done a class action lawsuit, but I commenced a form of activism that has continued to this day. I would say the fact that I am now an honorary colonel is another form of activism. It’s also another form of service.

It’s a very powerful moment for me personally, but I think it’s also powerful for the Canadian Armed Forces. There was a trust gap; but both the military and me, we are taking a bit of a leap of faith here. And so far, it’s going very well. It just shows that if you’re bold in taking some risks, good things can come from it.”

Above: In 2019 the board of directors of the LGBT Purge Fund announced they had hired their first employee as Douglas became the full-time Executive Director of the LGBT Purge Fund.

Creating A Safe Environment

Making the CAF a safe environment is still a challenge says Douglas, but with good policies addressing the issues, she believes the military is becoming a safer place for the 2SLGBTQI+ community. “I think change is hard, but change is constant. The challenges are that society is changing and the Canadian Armed Forces must reflect society. It draws from Canadian society for its members. So, it must create a safe, welcoming, and respectful work environment. The leadership of the CAF is making their expectations known and very clear. And over the past few years, particularly since the Professional Conduct and Culture Organization was stood up, many changes are being made and systems are being put in place to support and ensure the permanence of change.”

As a result of these changes, Douglas is aware of many members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community who are thriving in the military and grateful for the continual work and pressures that are being applied for the kind of workplace they need to thrive. “But there are also stories about members who aren't having that level of success in the military, and for some it remains quite difficult. Particularly for transgender folks and non-binary people. These people are sometimes struggling to find their place, not because they're not welcome, but because there may be a set of rules that make it difficult for them.”

She cites one example of how those applying for international postings may be denied because it could be determined by military authority that they can't get the medicine they need in another country because being queer is against the law in that country. “Well, we're going to have to work on those applications, because in some of those very countries, for example, women's healthcare products may not be legal either, but they can get them. So, we're doing all kinds of work to just continue to understand and find the right changes for the military to support all their members.”

Honorary Colonel for CPCC

In her new role as Honorary Colonel to CPCC, Douglas says her job is to connect with the organization, learn about their work and then share the stories and the good work they’re doing. “So far that has been a very easy and happy experience for me. I am impressed with what I see CPCC doing, particularly the level of sophistication. commitment, and determination. These people are tenacious in pursuing

their work to lift everyone up in the Canadian Armed Forces. They are supporting culture change, which is sometimes challenging work, but they’re doing it for the better.”

As Honorary Colonel she also participates in things like strategic retreats and providing counsel if asked, but mostly it’s about supporting CPCC’s work in a broader way. The LGBT community has been supportive of her new role.

“I think it is quite important for many of them. It shows them that the military is changing. I think after three decades of activism, I’ve earned some respect and trust among members of the community who are particularly interested in the military. Not everyone from the community is even supportive of the military. But for those who have a connection to or an affinity with the military, it’s been an important appointment. They’re asking me a lot of questions. They’re hoping I can bring something new to the military. And, so far, I think it’s going well.”

Back in Uniform

Coming to terms with putting a CAF uniform on again after so many years was a bit daunting at first, but Douglas has embraced it and the role it plays in her duties as an Hon. Colonel.

“It was more difficult than I anticipated it would be. I had a flood of memories about getting my uniform as a young officer cadet in 1986, and then thinking about what was being asked of me now. So, yes, the uniform was a little bit hard at the beginning. A little heavy. But I'm glad I was asked. It's a big honour, I am someone who's prepared to take a risk to build trust, and support conditions for positive change.”

Watch Douglas share her story with Heritage Canada.

Douglas was one of the first female officers invited to join the Special Investigations Unit part of the Military Police Branch.

Under New

MaxSys Sold to Agilus:

BY ADRIAN OLIVIER

MAXSYS, ONE OF Canada’s largest independently owned staffing firms, has been sold to Agilus, a prominent player in the recruitment industry. The sale was finalized on August 1st, 2024. The acquisition by Agilus was the result of discussions between MaxSys founder and CEO Bryan Brulotte and Agilus’s CEO. Brulotte expressed his satisfaction with the sale, citing a sense of accomplishment and the financial benefits accompanying such a transaction.

He emphasized that the decision to sell was not only about the financial windfall but also about the new opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. As part of the agree-

ment, Brulotte will transition into the role of Executive Vice President at Agilus. In this capacity, he will provide strategic insight, business development, and support during the integration of MaxSys into Agilus. His role will also involve acting as a brand ambassador, representing Agilus at various events.

The integration process will be conducted carefully to ensure that the strengths of both companies are leveraged effectively. Currently, no job losses are expected among the staff , and the goal is to create a smooth transition. Founded in 1993 after leaving the army and a brief stint in politics, MaxSys grew from a small operation run out of Brulotte’s basement into a national enterprise with revenues nearing $100 million. Brulotte started the company

because no one would hire him. “The answer, which is kind of funny but true, is that I was desperate,” he said. With absolutely no experience in cold call selling, he developed a routine of making 100 calls a day. “At that time what they used to have was a government phone book. It was quite thick for Ottawa with all the different government departments. I started at the A’s and I just started calling a hundred calls a day and left voice-

After leaving the army and a brief stint in politics, MaxSys grew from a small operation run out of Brulotte’s basement into a national enterprise with revenues nearing $100 million.

mails or talked to people,” he said.

Brulotte was seeking a meeting or the opportunity to make a presentation, which he was good at. He said learning to sell was probably the hardest thing he’s ever done in his life. Having read a couple of books on sales techniques and armed with his army shoes

ABOVE: Over the years Bryan Brulotte (left) has made a name for himself as a prominent philanthropist assisting military themed charities.

VETERAN

Management

What the Future Holds

and two suits, he went door to door.“I had a grey suit and a blue suit. And I’d wear the blue suit on Monday, the grey suit on Tuesday, the blue top with the grey pants on Wednesday, and then the grey top with the blue pants on Thursday, and then on Friday I’d do my interviews with prospective candidates. And then I’d start over again,” he said.

This unrelenting attitude paid off and Brulotte got his first break three months later and by the end of his first year had done two million in revenue. The company, which does between 35-40 per cent of its busi-ness with the federal government fills about 15,000 job positions per year. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and an ongoing economic downturn, MaxSys remained a profitable firm in the industry, with nine offices across Canada by the time of the sale.

Even though he’s sold his company, Brulotte said he still needs a professional challenge in his life. “I’m going to continue working,” he said. Brulotte expressed his interest in working in politics again. “I’ve always had an interest in, everyone knows this, in politics. I’ve always been interested in politics, so the timing might be right for that,” he said.

He will also continue his philanthropic work supporting veterans, his church, women’s shelters and the homeless. “It’s important to help our brothers and sisters in society. It is incumbent on us all to take responsibility and give back to our community,” Brulotte said.

Learning to sell was probably the hardest thing he’s ever done in his life. Having read a couple of books on sales techniques and armed with his army shoes and two suits, he went door to door.

ABOVE: Bryan Brulotte founded Maxsys in 1993 as the sole employee working out of his basement in Ottawa. Over the subsequent three decades he grew the company into a multi-million dollar enterprise.

“It is our fervent hope that this practice will spread across Canada and that eventually every Military Cemetery will be adorned with wreaths, each and every year.

Wreaths Across Canada’s mission is to place a wreath on the headstone of every veteran buried. “It is our fervent hope that this practice will spread across Canada and that eventually every Military Cemetery will be adorned with wreaths, each and every year. This simple but effective, thank you is central to the entire program. The wreaths symbolize our thanks to those who have served their country in the military and now lie at rest. Whether they died in battle,

training accidents or years after retiring from the military, all who lie buried in these hallowed grounds deserve the thanks of a grateful nation for defending the freedoms and lifestyle we enjoy today. It is our way to remember and honour those who served and teach our youth of Canada, the value of freedom. It is a deeply personal way for any Canadian to say thank you for your service to Canada,” said Craig McPhee founder of Wreaths Across Canada.

Join our Bow Brigade. During November, volunteers in the Ottawa and Petawawa areas will make over 5,000 bows. If you are interested, please email us at the link above.

Craig McPhee founder Wreaths Across Canada.

Wreaths Across Canada founder, Warrant Officer (ret’d) Craig McPhee passed away in 2022. His goal was to have wreaths placed on over 250,000 graves of military personnel across the country.

Right photo above, Warrant Officer (ret’d) Craig McPhee.

How You Can Help

THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO HELP: HERE ARE FOUR

01.

We are still in need of 1,200 wreaths to be sponsored. Sponsor a wreath today for $25, or sponsor more! Every $25 covers the cost of one wreath. Honour our heroes this holiday season. Sponsor a wreath support.

SPONSOR WREATH HERE.

02.

DEC. 1

Join us on Dec. 1, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. as we lay wreaths over 3,000. We will begin at the National Cemetery at Beechwood and aim to drive over to Notre-Dame Cemetery to lay more wreaths. Sponsor a Wreath

Join us as we build over 5,000 bows to attach to the wreaths. This year’s bows will be larger and feature a hook to simplify attaching and detaching them to the wreath so we can use them for years. For more information:

03.

Do you have a loved one laid to rest at Beechwood Cemetery or Notre Dame? If so, reserve a wreath to place on your loved one’s grave.

04.

Join us on Dec. 1, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. as we lay wreaths over 3,000. We will begin at the National Cemetery at Beechwood and aim to drive over to Notre-Dame Cemetery to lay more wreaths.

EMAIL MICHELLE HERE RESERVE WREATH HERE. MORE INFO HERE.

for Canadian Veterans Creating a National Charity

Growing up I didn’t know mothers’ father very well. Sadly, he suffered from shell shock, which is now commonly referred to as PTSD.

Upon returning from the war, he resorted to alcohol to numb his suffering, which led to violent and abusive behavior towards his family. Consequently, his family distanced themselves from him, resulting in my minimal interaction with him.

At one point, he held the position of Vice President at an international oil and gas company, later becoming a security guard in the same building, and eventually becoming a bottle picker to support himself. As I matured, I felt a strong desire to meet him and learn about his life. While I did not condone the way he treated my grandmother, mother, and uncles, I was intrigued to understand who he was and how his life had unraveled.

When I went out to meet with him, he was living in a small room, on the brink of becoming homeless. I saw a broken man, someone that was too proud to ask for help which left him with little social interaction beyond the local pub. One morning I woke to find him eating dog food prompting me to inquire why

he did not visit a food bank for support. His response, marked by pride, was, “Food banks are for women and children.” Upon returning home from this visit, I was consumed by thoughts of the numerous Veterans across Canada

A volunteer-driven organization dedicated to facilitating the successful transition of Canadian Veterans into civilian life.

who were enduring isolation and lacked the necessary support, or who were too proud to seek assistance. They are the forgotten warriors. Tragically, shortly after my visit, my grandfather passed away, which prompted me to take action and advocate for those who have defended our freedoms. I reached out to George Bittman, the leader of the Calgary Poppy Fund. He was a remark-

By David Howard

able individual, deeply committed to helping those who had served, having served himself.

I asked George if they had any form of food bank, and he directed me to a small collection of food items in his office. This meeting inspired me to establish the Calgary Veterans Food Drive for the Calgary Poppy Fund. Over the years, this annual event expanded, leading to the creation of the Calgary Poppy Fund’s Veterans Food Bank. The initiative proved to be so successful that the food bank grew to encompass two warehouses, providing support to between 80 and 140 Veterans and their families each month.

Through my involvement in the Veteran food drives, I had the opportunity to connect with numerous Veterans and gain insight into their challenges, particularly the limited support programs available to them. Consequently, I approached my brother and father, persuading them to join me in investing the necessary seed funding to establish a charity aimed at assisting Canadian

We will remember.

Veterans. Established in 2008, the Canadian Legacy Project is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to facilitating the successful transition of Canadian Veterans into civilian life. We accomplish this by providing complimentary programs that focus on housing, employment, education, and PTSD. Additionally, as part of our charitable mission, the Canadian Legacy Project creates educational initiatives throughout Canada to inform youth about the extraordinary individuals who have served to protect our nation.

In 2024, Canadian Legacy Project continues to offer our core programs while again adding innovative new initiatives to support our female Veterans. Research has shown that female Veterans are twice as likely as their male counterparts to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) - and this PTSD is more often linked to incidents within the Canadian Armed Forces, rather than operational missions. Unfortunately, there are few programs dedicated to our female Veterans and as such Canadian Legacy Project is filling this void.

Another key initiative is our Business Boot Camp which has been a resounding success across Canada. It is the only free program available to help Veterans start a new business. The 6-week course includes course readings, interactive discussions, the completion of a business model canvas, and one-onone coaching with the instructors. By the end, students have a completed business plan and a network of supports across Canada. Annually, graduates can apply for the Canadian Legacy Project Boot Camp grants, which provides funding to support the growth of their businesses and encourages them to hire other Veterans.

Canadian Legacy Project is a nationally registered charity that operates independently of government funding. It is sustained by the dedication of volunteers and the contributions of Canadians who are committed to supporting our Veterans. While we are not the sole Veterans charity in Canada, we do collaborate with numerous like-minded organizations. We believe in the strength of unity and advocate for cooperation, focusing on the shared mission to support Canadian Veterans.

As we near Remembrance Week, I urge you to reflect on how you can positively impact the lives of those who have served Canada. While many Veterans have successfully transitioned, there are still thousands who require assistance. The Canadian Legacy Project would certainly appreciate your financial contributions; however, monetary support is not the only means of aiding our Veterans. You can volunteer your time, donate food or clothing to local Veteran groups, participate in various Veteran-led fundraising events, or simply express your gratitude to our current military personnel and Veterans for their service. We will remember.

About the author, David Howard lives in Calgary with his wife Jacquelin and daughter Molly. David is the CEO of The Event Group, founder of the Homes For Heroes Foundation, and Founder and Chair of the Canadian Legacy Project.

Veteran & Family

Military Business Showcase

613 Fitness Army to Artist Bee & Thistle Winery

613 Fitness is a supportive and welcoming community in Kanata, Ontario. Our owners all have health care experience. We offer group, team, remote, and personal training, and strive to improve your quality and longevity of life.

Co-owned by Paul and Nadine Kernaghan. Paul is a veteran, having served 38+ years, and is now a Registered Kinesiologist. 613fitness.com

Mary is the sole Canadian artist who specializes in depiction of Canadian Forces military iconography. Mary works with the client to customize, tailor, illustrate, and immortalize their service career. Medals, trade badges, awards, decorations and personalized dog tags can often be seen throughout her pieces. More recently, she’s begun creating portraits of military families.

https://www.facebook.com/armytoartist/

Bee & Thistle Winery is a veteran-owned family fruit winery in Saskatchewan. We specialize in Haskap, Rhubarb and Black Currant fruit wines/beverages that taste of the fruit nurtured in our own orchards. Available in retail outlets in SK (soon in AB), with mail order to BC, AB, SK, MB and NS. Contact Information: (306) 747-1343 Winery

Location: Debden, Saskatchewan. www.beeandthistlewinery.wine

Brigadoon Fiber Farm

Brigadoon Fiber Farm is a veteran run family farm located in Hoyt NB. We offer heirloom quality products, focusing on slow fashion, produced from our herd of heritage sheep and alpaca. Boasting some of the finest fibre in NB, our products are sure to warm your soul. From yarns, alpaca socks and insoles, dryer balls, scarves, hats, shawls, blankets and more. Wether you’re prepping for a winter field ex, christmas or mothers day, we have something for everyone! Check us out online or book a farm tour and shopping experience.

www.brigadoonfiberfarm.com

Nourish U Wellness

Nourish U Wellness is a holistic wellness collective and event hub, located in Pembroke, Ontario. Captan retired Jane Wood Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Nutritionist and her business partner Dr Cheryl Allen, Naturopathic Doctor offer a collaborative approach to alternative healthcare. They envision a world where humans embrace their bodies, trusting its inherent wisdom. They believe health is not a linear journey , rather a constantly changing state of wellness. Learn-Heal-Grow. www.nourishu.ca

We are a start up, father-son operated local craft brewery. Petawawa is our home, sharing its history and our beer is our passion.

We offer local craft beer with a story on every label, our Bde. series is honouring all the units as they arrived in Camp Petawawa.

www.doghousebrewingcompany.ca

VC Athletic Therapy is a multidisciplinary, Clinic in Petawawa. We collaborate, educate and empower people to live and move better. Featuring Athletic Therapy massage, therapy, psychotherapy, and chiropractic. your physical and mental health are directly correlated in our holistic approach to your health, will help get you out of our clinic and back to doing the things you love!

https://vcathletictherapy.ca

Kanata Soup Company is a small, veteran, family owned business that makes artisan dried soup and dessert mixes using all local (we dehydrate) and Canadian produce. All of our recipes are bespoke and we ship all across Canada. We make our mixes in a commercial kitchen and are licensed and inspected. http://www.kanatasoup.ca

Veterans Association Food Bank Edmonton (VAFB) is a not-for-profit charity organization that focuses on veterans helping veterans. Not only are we a food bank but we also offer household and hygiene products, pet food and supplies, VAC Assistance, peer support and much more.”

www.veteransassociationfoodbank.ca

Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.

Don’t be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.

They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary. -

Pumpkin Spice

Everythingis Nice

Pumpkins

and spice is all that is nice in the autumn.

THE GALLEY

Pumpkin Fluff Dip

Paige LeClair

Prep 5 mins | Ready 1 hour | Total Time 1:05

Pumpkin fluff dip is a light and creamy fall treat, blending pumpkin, whipped cream, and warm spices into a delightful dip perfect for graham crackers, apple slices, or ginger snaps.

Ingredients

1 can (15oz/398ml) pumpkin

1 pkg Jello vanilla pudding mix

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

3 cups whipped topping thawed (Cool Whip)

Instructions

In a large bowl whisk pumpkin, jello vanilla pudding and spice until blended.

Stir in 3 cups thawed Cool Whip topping. Refrigerate for 1 hour.

Serve with gingersnaps cookies, graham crackers, apples.

NOTES: For an extra festive look, serve dip in a hallowed out small pumpkin

Pumpkin recipes bring warmth and flavour to fall, from spiced pumpkin loaf and creamy pumpkin fluff to classic pumpkin muffins and savoury pumpkin soup, capturing the essence of autumn in every bite.

Thai Curry Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk

Prep time 5 mins | 20 mins | Total Time 25 mins Yields 4 servings

Enjoy this, velvety blend of pumpkin and fragrant Thai spices, enriched with creamy coconut milk for a comforting and exotic fall-inspired dish

Ingredients

2 Tbsp coconut oil

1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil

1 onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 Tbsp vegan Thai red or yellow curry paste

1 Tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and minced

1 (3-inch) stalk lemongrass, bruised

2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth, plus more to thin as needed

1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin puree or 2 cups fresh pumpkin puree

2 Tbsp tamari or soy sauce

1 (14 oz) can coconut milk, 1 Tbsp reserved for garnish

2 Tbsp lime juice, plus more for serving

⅓ cup shredded Thai basil or fresh cilantro

3 red Thai chilis, sliced or minced

Instructions

Pumpkin Loaf

Prep 10 mins | Total Time 1 hour 10 mins | Yields 1 loaf

Enjoy this tasty loaf infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, delivering the perfect blend of sweetness and pumpkin flavor in every comforting slice.

Ingredients

2 cups sugar

11/4 oil

4 eggs

2 cups canned pumpkin

3 cups flour

3 teaspoons baking powder

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350F.

½ teaspoon nutmeg

½ teaspoon all spice

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

2. In large bowl mix all ingredients in order until combined

3. Bake in general loaf pan at 350F for 1 hour.

1. In a large pot, heat coconut oil and sesame oil over medium heat until simmering.

2. Add onion, garlic, curry paste, ginger and lemongrass, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook until onions are softened, about 10 minutes.

3. Add broth, pumpkin and tamari or soy sauce.

4. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover and cook for 10 minutes.

5. Remove lid and discard lemongrass. Stir in coconut milk and lime juice. Using an immersion blender or regular blender in batches, puree soup until smooth.

6. If soup is too thick for your preference, thin with additional broth until desired consistency

7. Reheat soup over low heat, ladle into bowls, swirl reserved coconut milk and top adding basil or cilantro and chili.

8. Serve with additional lime juice.

Pumpkin Pie Bars

Prep Time 15 mins | Cook Time 1 hr | Total 1 hr 15 mins

These gluten-free bars offer all the cozy flavours of traditional pumpkin pie: smooth, spiced filling atop a tender, shortbread crust—perfect for a delicious, treat.

Ingredients

Cookie Base

1 cup + 2 tablespoons gluten-free all purpose flour with xanthin gum (if making gluten-free)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

¼ teaspoon salt

6 tablespoons dairy free butter or real butter, softened, cut into tablespoons

Pumpkin Layer

1 - 15 oz can pure pumpkin puree

½ cup granulated sugar

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon salt

1 tablespoons cinnamon

2 slightly beaten eggs

1/4 cup milk or coconut milk

6 oz evaporated milk or evaporated coconut milk

Instructions

1. Preheat over to 375 degrees F.

6. Bake 15 minutes.

7. Take out of oven.

Line 8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper such that the paper hangs over the edges or is tucked in such a way that you can lift the paper right out the bars are done.

Cookie base

2. 3. Using a mixer, add flour, sugar, and salt to large mixing bowl. On low speed combine until dough forms.

5. 4.

Add butter, a little at a time. Continue mixing until a dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the bowl, approximately 2-3 minutes. Using your hands, press dough into an even layer in the lined baking dish.

Pumpkin Muffins

Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20-25 mins

Total Time 35 mins Yields 12 servings

These muffins are a delightful autumn treat, bursting with warm spices and tender pumpkin flavor, perfect for cozy mornings or an on-the-go snack.

Ingredients

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup whole-wheat flour

2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1¼ tsp kosher salt

2 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground ginger

½ tsp ground turmeric

¼ tsp ground nutmeg

1½ cups pumpkin puree (about 1 15oz can)

3 large eggs

1 cup light brown sugar

⅔ cup maple syrup

Pumpkin Layer (Make while cookie layer bakes)

Increase oven to 450 F after removing cookie layer.

9. Mix together pumpkin, sugar, salt, ginger, nutmeg and cinnamon.

Add eggs and both milks. Mix until well combined.

Pour directly onto the warm coked cookie layer. The pan will be hot, make sure you are wearing oven mitts. With two oven mitts, gently rock the pan side to side to spread evenly.

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 350°degrees F.

2. Prepare muffin tins: spray muffin molds with nonstick spray or line them with paper liners.

3. Heat butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, swirling occasionally, until the butter has melted, foamed and started to brown, about 5 mins. Use a whisk to scrape up any browned bits at the bottom of the pot. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric and nutmeg.

5. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin, eggs, brown sugar and maple syrup until totally smooth. Whisk in dry ingredients, followed by browned butter.

6. Divide amount in to prepared muffin tins and bake until tops are puffed and spring back slightly when pressed.

Bake 10 mins at 450F, then lower oven temp to 350F for 30 mins. Then cover the baking dish with foil, loosely, and bake for 5 mins more.

Cool completely, then refrigerate until serving, slice and serve wth dollop of cream if desired.

NOTES: Store in refrigerator. Will keep well in refrigerator, without whipped cream on it for several days. If making ahead, store covered.

KEEPING THE BALANCE TRAVEL

Jewel of the Caribbean

The Island of Montserrat

By Cristina Florentina Braia

Each year, the Caribbean welcomes visitors, all drawn by the scenic beauty of its nature, its unique history and culture, the food, the lively festivals, and more, all along with the opportunity to relax and unwind in a sunny, tropical paradise. Known for its mesmerizing beaches and laid-back, joyful living, the Caribbean consists of more than thirty nations and seven thousand islands, islets, reefs, and cays.

About Montserrat

At the invitation of the Monserrat Tourism Division (www.visitmontserrat.com), I had the pleasure of attending a presentation on one British Overseas Territory, a hidden jewel of the Caribbean: the island of Montserrat. This bohemian island, with thirty-nine square miles in area and approximately twenty-five miles of coastline, is proud to welcome you with its rich traditions, culture, and history, which have shaped the friendly personality of the country’s people. Part of the Leeward Islands and located southwest of Antigua, north of the Lesser Antilles, the pear-shaped island of Montserrat was once named by the native Caribs as “Alliouagana,” meaning “Land of the Prickly Bush.”

Today, the island is nicknamed “The Emerald Isle of the Caribbean,” both for its resemblance to coastal Ireland and the Irish ancestry of many of its inhabitants. An Irish Shamrock forms the national emblem, and the coat of arms of the Montserrat Flag features Erin (the female figure with a harp and cross). Also, St. Patrick’s Day is a holiday on this emerald isle.

History

The native Caribs, the Taino people, first inhabited the Island of Montserrat around c. 500 BCE and lived in villages such as Trants, Little Bay, Windward Bluff, Old Fort Point, and Dagenham. They left their mark in the form of artifacts, some of which can be found in the National Museum. Later, on his second voyage in 1493, Christopher Columbus sighted the island and named it Santa Maria de Montserrate, after a famous monastery near Barcelona, Spain. Montserrat means “serrated mountain” in Catalan. In 1632, the first

Europeans to settle on the island were primarily Irish indentured servants. These servants had agreed to provide up to seven years of labour in return for “freedom dues” in the form of either land or capital. Africans arrived on the island as enslaved people who worked the plantations of sugar cane, sea-island cotton, and limes. They brought their own traditions, which blended with some Irish customs.

Between 1871 and 1956, Montserrat was part of the (British) Federal Colony of the Leeward Islands, including the British Virgin Islands, Saint Kitts–Nevis–Anguilla, and Dominica. Montserrat’s historical contribution to music is worth mentioning as well, as the island was the home of Alphonsus “Arrow” Cassell (who released “Hot! Hot! Hot!”). Between 1977 and 1989, Air Montserrat Studios, a recording studio operated by Sir George Martin (the Beatles), welcomed performers like the Rolling Stones, Sting, and Elton John, and some of their most famous albums were recorded at the studio. After Hurricane Hugo hit the island in 1989, the studio was closed.

Left: Little Bay, Montserrat. Above: The deserted town of Plymouth is Montserrat’s star attraction – the only volcanic-buried town in the Americas. Below: Goat water is the national dish of Montserrat, a stew authentically made from the meat of the male (ram) goat, which resembles an Irish stew.

Montserrat Today

In the late 1990s, the explosive eruptions of the Soufrière Hills Volcano on the island led to widespread devastation. Montserrat’s Georgian-era capital city of Plymouth was abandoned, and the entire population was removed from the lower two-thirds of the island. The repercussions of the eruptions are still being felt today, but this modern-day Pompeii is recovering and has a lot to offer! Apart from the volcano-related day trips, Montserrat recommends its lush gardens, bird and turtle-watching, diverse hiking trails, watersports, spectacular hilltop views, and unique black sand beaches while enjoying the tranquil and safe ambience of the old Caribbean. Today, the Montserrat Volcano Observatory closely monitors the volcano. Sand mining and geothermal energy provide new income sources, and Montserrat’s population has grown to close to 5,000 inhabitants.

Getting There

Airlines such as Air Canada provide direct flights from Toronto, Ont. to the island of Antigua, which takes approximately five hours. If you travel by air from Antigua to the island of Monserrat, airlines such as Flymonserrat and ABM Air offer flights to John A. Osborne Airport. These flights take only twenty minutes. It is essential to know that the passengers who do not have same-day connections by air to Montserrat will have to pay the Antigua Airport Tax, which is EC$101.25/US$37.50. Also, passengers leaving Montserrat for Antigua by air must pay a departure tax of EC$35/ US$13. Another option to travel from Antigua to Montserrat is by sea, where ferry services for adults charge about EC$300/US$111 for a round-trip. Please note that you should also look into the departure taxes there.

When Visit

Montserrat is a year-round destination because the climate is tropical and mild, with slight seasonal variations in temperature or precipitation. The average temperatures range from lows of 70–76 °F (21–24 °C) to highs of 80–86 °F (27–30 °C), and the warmest period is from June to November, which is also hurricane season. Though the island is often in the path of hurricanes (Hurricane Hugo in 1989 was particularly devastating), the Montserrat Tourism Division reassures the visitors that “homes built after Hurricane Hugo have heavily reinforced roofs, some made of concrete.”

Where Visit

The south is the island’s Exclusion Zone, and due to the location of the Soufrière Hills Volcano, the best places to visit are mainly in the northwest part of Montserrat. Little Bay is a port town under construction, with its Marine Village offering cozy restaurants and bars. It is a charming place where you often see sailors anchored with their sailboats.

Also, the Montserrat National Museum is located nearby. In 1998, Brades became Montserrat’s “de facto” capital. The area is most popular in March during its St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Many hiking trails, like The Cot and the Katy Hill Trail System, originate in or around Brades. The city contains several shops, a bank (a branch of the Royal Bank of Canada), government offices, a post office, a library, and a pharmacy.

Colorful minivans will stop and drive you anywhere, with rates starting from EC$3 (just under US$1.25). Relax and enjoy the ride! The must do’s of a vacation in Montserrat include the following.

Festivals

THE CARNIVAL (YEAR-END FESTIVAL)

Montserrat’s annual Carnival is a multi-day experience, which celebrates the island’s music, pageantry, heritage, and culture. It is one of the most anticipated end of year carnivals in the Caribbean—usually drawing thousands of attendees during the Christmas season.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL

Montserrat is the only island in the Caribbean that officially observes the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, which takes place mainly in the village of Salem. Street parades, food fairs, concerts, African fashion shows, and dances highlighting the island’s African and Irish heritage take place from the second week in March until the primary day, the 17th. The Island’s Tourism Division recommends accommodations during St Patrick Festival be booked a few months in advance.

Island Highlights

GARIBALDI HILL

One of the most breathtaking and dramatic views of the Soufriere Hills Volcano and the ghost-town city of Plymouth is from atop Garibaldi Hill. On the other side, you can see Isle’s Bay and Old Road Bay, as well as Old Towne and Salem.

THE HILLTOP COFFEE HOUSE & FAMILY CENTRES

A non-profit established in 2012, just a short walk up from the Gingerbread Hill accommodation, the coffeehouse features a veranda with a lovely view, a variety of coffees and teas, hand-made jewelry and crafts, a library, and an Art Gallery Wall. The house has unique displays on walls and tables, including Air Studio, Arrow, volcanic pictures and information, and many other historical facts. “At the Hilltop Coffee House, we hold very interesting memories of the buried city,” said owner Mr. David D. Lea.

MONTSERRAT VOLCANO OBSERVATORY (MVO)

MVO, located in Flemings, Salem, is a colourful state-of-the-art building equipped to monitor the volcano. It is also strategically positioned to view the volcano and surroundings, including the abandoned capital, Plymouth.

RUNAWAY GHAUT

The ghaut (pronounced ‘gut’) is a steep ravine that sends the rainwater from the mountains into the sea. The most famous ghaut in Montserrat is called Runaway Ghaut and is located on the side of the road just north of Salem. According to the legend, those who drink from it will return to Montserrat again.

THE MONTSERRAT NATIONAL TRUST

Botanical

Garden

With its purpose to educate the public about the importance and conservation of plants, as well as the need to collect and record the traditional knowledge of plants that the elders possessed, The Botanical Garden features an Orchid House, a Medicinal Garden, a Nursery Area, and more. Lucky visitors get to taste the local Caribbean bush tea, as well! Close by, in Olveston, you can find the Gift Shop of the National Trust, where Montserratians make exclusive souvenirs.

MONTSERRAT

Accommodations

When it comes to the accommodation on the island, there are no chain hotels or all-inclusive resorts. The biggest hotel in Montserrat is a sixteen-room, family-owned boutique hotel, Tropical Mansion Suites. Olveston and Old Towne are great neighbourhoods for families with children. The towns are very safe as the island has an extremely low crime rate. Plus, Olveston and Old Towne are close to beaches and hiking trails and offer a range of villas from moderate to luxurious.

Isle’s Bay is an excellent honeymoon option, with more secluded villas and great views. B&Bs, guesthouses, and apartments that can be rented are scattered throughout the island. The accommodations are

primarily self-catering and conveniently located near restaurants, nightlife, shopping, etc.

Gingerbread Hill Guesthouse, located in the St. Peter’s area, boasts fantastic views of land and seascapes, with rates starting from US$45/night. Please note that for the hotels, 10 per cent Government Hotel Tax, as well as 10 per cent service charge will be added to the room rates. For the other types of accommodation, there is only a seven per cent Government Hotel Tax.

National Dishes & Local Restaurants

Goat water is the national dish of Montserrat, a stew authentically made from the meat of the male (ram) goat, which resembles an Irish stew. It is served fresh with bread or rice. The dish is cooked in a unique pot or tin on a wooden fire, where the smoke enhances the taste of the stew, which has a distinctive taste, flavour, and colour. Goat Water is a communal dish usually served at weddings, christenings, parties, and funerals. Other national dishes are Duckna (sweet potato boiled with spices and coconut and wrapped in banana leaf), Cassava Bread (flatbread made of the cassava root vegetable), or Souse

The Beaches

Last but not least, Montserrat’s beaches boast an unusual colour palette ranging from sparkling black to different shades of gray. The single whitesand beach is at Rendezvous Bay in the north.

Rendezvous Beach, Montserrat’s only white sand beach, is accessible by kayak or a short hike from Little Bay. It offers schools of fish and a vibrant reef, providing fun times for snorkelers. Little Bay Beach is famous for standup paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, and snorkeling. It is also known for its lively Marine Village, with its restaurants and bars.

A popular picnic spot, Woodlands Beach has a covered clifftop picnic area overlooking clear blue waters. The black-sand beach, evidence of the island’s volcanic origins, is easily accessible and rarely crowded. Fox’s Bay is a long stretch of beach that starts just beyond Isle’s Bay to the north up to

(pickled pigs’ trotters cooked in a clear broth with vegetables and served with breadfruit). Visitors have many options for restaurants on the island, from takeaways and casual dining at local eateries to fine dining at full-service restaurants. One of Montserrat’s most famous and traditional places to eat is People’s Place Restaurant on Forgathy’s Hill. From its veranda, guests enjoy great views, as “Uncle John,” the friendly owner, prepares delicious Goat Water. to

Bransby Point in the south. At one end, you can see Old Towne, and at the other, the Plymouth pier. Isle’s Bay is formerly known as a popular spot where fishermen from Salem and Cork Hill came to catch and sell fish. It is ideal for swimming and families with children.

Lime Kiln is a small beach suitable for shore dives and sea turtle watching. Near, there is a beautiful picnic area under the almond trees. Carr’s Bay, a beautiful blacksand beach, is a hotspot for history lovers as well as sunbathers. The bay features a ruined fort that still has cannons pointing out at sea, the island’s War Memorial, and a model of the Plymouth Clock Tower.

So Much Explore

There is so much to explore and learn about this unique volcano paradise, a yet-to-be-discovered jewel of the Caribbean. The Island of Montserrat should be on your immediate travel horizons! “Montserrat is the perfect destination to unwind and be free in the peaceful tranquillity of nature. Our people are friendly and very community-oriented. There are no crowds and the hustle and bustle, and we enjoy the fact that there is little to no crime,” said Mr. Warren Solomon, director of tourism, Montserrat Tourism Division

Been There Done That

MUnique immersive experience marks 80th anniversary in the Netherlands In Our Fathers’ Footsteps 2025

By: Karen Hunter

y father didn’t talk about the War. Like most Second World War Veterans, he kept those stories to himsel. But I knew this backstory had changed his life, and my mother’s. There were clues around the house: a special pair of small wooden clogs with a handwritten inscription: With many thanks for that did (sic) the Canadian forces for our Dutch country and our people. 5-5-45;

Christmas cards with unusual surnames, like Ingenhousz and van der Meij; my mother’s Longines watch, “from Doug.” Years later I learned they’d been engaged. Doug was a pilot, shot down and killed over Germany on Valentine’s Day, 1945.

In 1985, my father returned to “Holland” for the 40th Liberation anniversary, and again in 1995 for the 50th. Both times, he and my mother were billeted with a young Dutch couple, Peter and Ans van der Meij, who, over the decades, became part of our family. These anniversaries had a profound effect on the Canadian “Liberators” and inspired many, like my father, to write a memoir about their war experience. My father presented this to our family on his 85th birthday.

In 1941, my father had enlisted as a gunner with the Royal Canadian Artillery after his graduation from the University of Toronto, and joined Conn Smyth’s “Sportsmen’s Battery” (30th Light Anti-Aircraft). He was 22. Following Pearl Harbour in 1942, he went to British Columbia, and later Alaska, to man anti-aircraft positions there. After Officers’ Training in Brockville and Petawawa, he was shipped to England where he ran a motorcycle school. Later, he was posted to the Canadian 1st Division in Italy where, as an Artillery Officer, he commanded a heavy mortar platoon. When the 1st Division left Italy in June 1944, my father managed the Battery’s

troop movement and convoy traffic during the long trek through France and Belgium, then north into the Netherlands. They arrived in the Spring of 1945 and, months later, helped to liberate the Dutch.

Though I’d read my father’s memoir, I didn’t give it much thought until I was climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro for my 50th birthday in 2009. A few weeks before my departure for Tanzania, my father died. He was 89. It wasn’t unexpected; he’d had cancer. But this turn of events was on my mind throughout the climb. As I placed one foot after the other on the mountainside, I reflected on how the Second WorId War had shaped my parents’ lives and, by extension, mine. I began to realize that I wanted, perhaps needed, to know more. There were so many questions I wished I’d asked.

Years later, my long trek on Spain’s Camino de Santiago sparked the idea of a pilgrimage to the Netherlands to better understand my father’s wartime experience. Using his memoir as a guide, I’d walk in his footsteps to mark the Liberation’s 75th anniversary in May 2020. Our family friend, Peter (a retired Dutch military officer), was keen to help so I travelled to the Netherlands to research the route with him. While I was there, I walked in Nijmegen’s Four Days Marches and experienced the incredible outpouring of love for Canadians. I wanted other descendants of Second World War Veterans to experience this Dutch gratitude

so I decided to send an invitation, across Canada, to join my pilgrimage.

Sons, daughters, nieces, nephews, grandchildren … hundreds wanted to come.

“In my father’s footsteps” became “In Our Fathers’ Footsteps” (IOFF) and, before long, 150 Canadians had joined, with a long wait list. Peter amassed an army of Dutch volunteers, researched the routes in detail, and created an amazing itinerary. Then … COVID struck.

During the two-and-a-half-year postponement, IOFF (now a not-for-profit) partnered with McMaster University and a team of engineering students designed and built The Canadian Remembrance Torch to lead participants along the paths of the Canadian troops. Air Canada agreed to fly the Torch’s special flame (from the Centennial Flame on Parliament Hill) in a travel lamp to Amsterdam. Finally, in September 2022, The Canadian Remembrance Torch was lit in Megchelen (near the German border) and IOFF’s journey began.

Each day, we followed “Marching Orders” and, for walks, assembled in platoons according to our fathers’ units. Each platoon had a leader, a flag-bearer, and a medic. We followed the troops’ routes—in sunshine, rain, and fog—across farmers’ fields and along forest paths, stopping to hold ceremonies at Canadian monuments. Led by the Torch and a pipe and drum band, we walked through villages liberated by the Canadian troops and received a celebrity-style welcome. At the end of each day, we returned to our “barracks,” a former Second World War Canadian field hospital.

At Groesbeek, Holten, and Bergen Op Zoom Canadian War Cemeteries, we wandered among the rows of headstones, mesmerized by the heartfelt epitaphs and youthful ages. One evening, we walked two kilometres in the dark behind the Apeldoorn Pipe and Drum Band, the Torch, and forty candles, to a village where 40 Canadians had been temporarily buried. Under the stars, the village band played our countries’ anthems, followed by a beautiful ceremony. At Het Loo Palace, we held a “passing the Torch to the next generation” ceremony with Princess Margriet. For me, the journey’s end was bittersweet. After years of waiting, IOFF had finally happened. Participants’ feedback was offthe-charts. But now, this unique, one-time event was over. “I know you only do things once,” Peter’s email began. “But when we can bring this much joy to so many Canadi-

Photos are from In Our Father’s Footsteps past trip. Photos courtesy of In Our Father’s Footsteps.

ans, we have to do it again for the 80th anniversary.”

He’s right. Sometimes once just isn’t enough.

In Our Fathers’ Footsteps 2025 April 27 - May 8, 2025 Commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Dutch Liberation and the end of the Second World War, IOFF is a not-forprofit immersive experience that enables the descendants of those who served in the Netherlands to gain a deeper understanding of their relative’s wartime experience. Email: inourfathersfootstepsevent@gmail.com IOFF 2025 is filling up fast.

Karen Hunter is the Founder and Executive Director of The Canadian Remembrance Torch, a registered charity dedicated to energizing remembrance and inspiring a culture of gratitude for the sacrifices made for peace and freedom. In Our Fathers’ Footsteps is one of the charity’s initiatives.

Photos courtesy of In Our Father’s Footsteps.

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